In a powerful display of solidarity, the Miami Heat teamed up with Carnival Cruise Line and Direct Relief to ship critical supplies to Jamaica. The country of Jamaica is still suffering from the effects of Hurricane Melissa. Hurricane Melissa devastated the island and left many Jamaican residents to rebuild from scratch. The Heat, Carnival, and Direct Relief felt it vital to do their part to provide aid. At the Port of Miami, they distributed 68 tons of hygiene kits and medical supplies that were being sent on the Carnival Horizon trip, which was departing from the port.
The operation showcased forklift operators who were maneuvering stacks of Direct Relief-branded pallets that also had Jamaican flags on them. The effort was supported by a $1 million contribution from the Micky & Madeleine Arison family foundation. There was a prior donation sent via air from Miami International Airport as well. Miami Heat Legend and Vice President of Player Programs, Alonzo Mourning, was in attendance to give a statement and show solidarity towards the country of Jamaica as well.
Ralph Leon, Senior Director of Social Responsibility for the Miami Heat, shared his thoughts on what it means for the Heat organization to give back to Jamaica: “It means everything to us. We have a lot of families down here in South Florida that have a lot of ties to Jamaica and the Caribbean in general. This is big for us. To be able to help those who are in need right now in Jamaica. This is part of the million-dollar donation that the Arison Foundation, along with the Heat and Carnival, has made to Direct Relief. And so we are seeing the fruits of that donation today, 68 tons of hygiene kits and medical supplies being sent to Jamaica on the Carnival ship. And hopefully that will provide much-needed help at this present time.”
The Miami Heat, Carnival Cruise Line, and Direct Relief stand in solidarity in order to make a positive difference for the country of Jamaica. Jamaica is a resilient country with resilient people who live there. They will bounce back strong.
