On Aug. 27, the tiny nation of Dominica was devastated by a tropical storm that dropped more than 15 inches of rain on the island. Landslides and massive flooding ensued, killing more than 30 people and leaving hundreds homeless.
“This is a significant blow to any island, particularly one with about 70,000 people,” says Shirma Pierre, administrative director for BWH’s Center for Community Health and Health Equity. “The infrastructure has been crippled, and it is estimated that the storm has set Dominica’s development back 20 years.”
Pierre, who was born in Dominica and grew up there, is responding to the call for assistance along with other members of the Dominican community in Boston. The relief effort, “Boston for Dominica,” will provide assistance towards high priority needs of people in Dominica affected by the storm. The group is working with the government of Dominica to facilitate the collection and distribution of items that are deemed priority.
Boston for Dominica is seeking donations of cash or necessities, including the following:
- Baby formula
- Diapers and wipes (baby and adult)
- Canned food
- Cases and bottles of water
- Paper towels
- Hand sanitizers
- Cleaning supplies
- Bedding
- Additional items on the government’s priority list.
Items may be dropped off to Shirma Pierre at the Center for Community Health and Health Equity’s Emmanuel College or Crosstown locations. Please contact Shirma at spierre4@partners.org for details or to make other arrangements. Boston for Dominica recommends that cash donations be made via GoFundMe accounts endorsed by the government.