Secondary school students and staff are collecting aid for families affected in Jamaica by Hurricane Melissa.
Principal Leon Wilson, of Hurlingham Academy in Wandsworth has been living in London since 2002.
As a native of the town of Westmoreland on the Caribbean island, he launched the donation drive last week as the devastation is deeply personal for him.
He said: “Jamaica’s very close to my heart.”
The school’s initiative focuses on non-perishable food, baby supplies, hygiene items and clothing, highlighting the urgency of providing immediate relief.
Their goal is to send items directly to trusted community contacts in Jamaica. This is to ensure aid reaches families most in need, particularly in Westmoreland.
Wilson explained: “To distribute aid, you need someone local who can take it to specific areas and make sure people receive it.”
Hurricane Melissa struck the Caribbean on Tuesday 28 October. The category 5 hurricane was the strongest storm of 2025 so far.
Experts report of wind speeds reaching around 185 miles per hour, whilst the scale of destruction of Jamaica’s damage costs were estimated at £6 billion.
Approximately 72% of the island’s energy customers lost power, and more than 6,000 people sought refuge in emergency shelters over the weekend.
Authorities have confirmed at least 32 deaths as a result. Officials warn that the toll could rise as rescue and recovery operations continue.
Hurlingham Academy has rich Jamaican heritage amongst students and staff.
According to Wilson, contributions have already begun and teachers have recently took part in a training day linked to the charity effort.
A Facebook post about the appeal has also encouraged donations from members of the wider London community.
Alongside collecting supplies, the campaign aims to help students appreciate the value of education.
Due to the hurricane’s destruction of infrastructure including schools, Wilson added that several young people in Jamaica may be out of school for months.
Therefore he hopes the experience encourages gratitude and a sense of responsibility towards others.
He expressed that compassion should extend beyond local communities, especially for Londoners with connections to Jamaica.
“Your community is so much wider than where you live,” he said.
Hurlingham Academy is accepting donations until 15 November during school hours.
Principal Wilson has set up a donation drive for victims of Hurricane Melissa. Credit: Alicia Olaniran.
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