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Responding in Compassion: Disaster Relief Update

February 4, 2026 | Andrew King | Ontario Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church

In late October 2025, news reports warned that a powerful hurricane was forming in the Caribbean and heading toward Jamaica. On October 28, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica as a devastating Category 5 storm, packing winds of up to 185 miles per hour. The western side of the island suffered extensive damage as the hurricane left a path of destruction, debris and dismay across the island.

In response, the Ontario Conference quickly reviewed the situation and issued a call for assistance in November 2025. We are happy to report that churches across Ontario responded with remarkable generosity. The Conference administration also reached out to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Jamaica to identify the most urgent needs on the ground.

The West Jamaica Conference was among the hardest hit. After consultation with President Glen Samuels, it was determined that the greatest need was the repair and replacement of damaged roofs for homes of church and community members. Through the faithful giving of Ontario Conference members, $98,657.00 was raised and sent to the West Jamaica Conference. These funds are currently being used to repair and replace roofs in the conference.

While recovery efforts in Jamaica were still underway, another disaster struck—a super typhoon devastated parts of the Philippines. Once again, a call for help went out, and once again the churches of Ontario responded. An additional $48,827 was raised to support relief efforts in the Philippines. For this response, the Ontario Conference partnered with ADRA, which facilitated the transfer of funds to support recovery and rebuilding efforts.

As disasters continue to arise around the world, the Ontario Conference is taking a proactive approach. A “Disaster Response” option has now been added to our online Adventist giving platform. In times of crisis, members can simply designate their offerings to this fund, enabling timely and effective responses wherever the need is greatest.

Thank you for your generosity, compassion, and willingness to serve. Together, we continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus—sharing hope, help, and healing with those in need.

Pastor Andrew King
Director of Compassion Ministries,
Ontario Conference