Reaching sustained winds of 185 mph, Hurricane Dorian made landfall as the strongest hurricane to have ever hit the Bahamas. On Wednesday, the death toll rose to 20 and is expected to rise as recovery continues. President Trump discussed his plans to send help to the Bahamas such as sending helicopters and ‘helping hands’ to relieve the island, but the Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Hubert Minnis, continues to search for more help as their resources have become limited.

With devastation and destruction surrounding the island, people from all over the world can join in on the move to aid the Bahamas. Donations to the Red Cross, Global Giving, HeadKnowles, and Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation are open for the public to donate through. Supplies for all ages are accepted but they do hope to expect supplies for infants and the elderly.

Freeport Bahamas is only 88 miles West Palm Beach Florida. Bahamians are practically neighbors with Floridians. Hurricane Dorian’s destruction left the island destroyed. If Chiefs want to do anything to help there are a few things they can do.

There are other organizations local that are accepting donations for the hurricane victims.

1. The Palm Beach Outlets are accepting donations at the Customer Service center.

• First Aid kits 
• Cleaning Supplies
• Canned Goods
• Flashlights
• Leather work gloves
• Hand sanitizer 
• Non-perishable food
• Water
• Tarps
• Toiletries
• Diapers 
• Wipes (cleaning and baby)
• Batteries
• Bug spray 
• Plastic trash bags
• Baby food

2. Amazon has created a way through their website to donate money and goods to relief organizations that are helping the Bahamas. This allows people to know that their money is going to a legitimate organization. Partners of Amazon include Save the Children, The Red Cross, St. Bernard Project, and Mercy Corps.

3. Rocco’s Tacos will have donation drop-offs at each of their restaurants. They will take portable water, non- perishable food items, first aid items, batteries, or cleaning supplies.

If you have any unused hurricane food that you did not eat and will not use, why not donate it? 

If you have any family members in the Bahamas and have not been able to get in touch with them, you can call the Bahamas Consulate General’s Office at (305) 373-6295.

Santaluces’ National Honors Society, Student Government, and the Class of 2020 has put together a list of items Chiefs can donate. All contributions will go to the Bahamas. If you are looking to turn in items, please go to Mr. Wake in room 8-130. This collection ends September 20. Please do not donate any clothing items.