Shirt Off My Back Campaign to Support Jamaica’s Recovery After Hurricane Melissa
The “Shirt Off My Back” Campaign, a collaboration between Chef and Artist Roger Mooking, Olympian Donovan Bailey, and community organizations including: Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, Toronto Pearson International Airport, HMS Host, Steer2Home, Brothers Who Care, Hear 2 Help, Twist by Roger Mooking, and Rocklands Market is stepping forward with a simple mission: to help the people of Jamaica rebuild with care, dignity, and purpose.
Hurricane Melissa has left deep scars in Western Jamaica, uprooting homes, livelihoods, and stability. This campaign acts as the steady heartbeat behind Jamaica’s recovery.
Through donating quality clothing, non-perishable food, bottled water, hygiene products, and linens, the initiative will bring comfort and continuity to those beginning to rebuild their lives.
The Heart of the Mission, Simone Jennifer Smith, Founder of Hear 2 Help, shares that this effort began with a deep personal moment. “It was hearing the pain in my mother’s voice when she said our family had lost everything,” Simone explained. “That conversation stayed with me, and I reached out to Roger Mooking. It was about our community. I knew we had to move beyond sympathy and create something that lasts.”
Roger Mooking adds,
“Recovery isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon of compassion. We want to make sure Jamaica’s people are supported in every step of rebuilding their lives.” While the campaign begins with clothing and care essentials, it’s designed to provide support that continues long after media coverage fades. Real Partners, Real Impact. The initiative’s credibility extends beyond intention. This is a community effort with motivated partners and passionate volunteers. This is community.
Every contribution is tracked, sorted, and transported directly to trusted community networks on the ground in Jamaica. First shipments are scheduled for departure by the beginning of December, with a six month roadmap focused on sustained recovery and local rebuilding.
Where and When to Contribute | Drop-Off Locations
Drop Off Location 1: 1860 Jane St (Toronto) – Down the ramp, through the Purple and Yellow door, left side of ramp
Dates: November 9th, 16th, and 30th | 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Drop Off Location 2: Rocklands Market (580364 Sideroad 60, Berkeley, ON) Date: November 16th | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Drop Off Location 3: Toronto Pearson International Airport HMS Host Locations: Twist by Roger Mooking, HMS Production Kitchen, and multiple HMS Host locations in Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Dates: November 7th – 14th
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Media Contact: Simone Jennifer Smith
Email: simone@carib101.com
Phone: 416-312-9277
About the “Shirt Off My Back” Campaign
The “Shirt Off My Back” Campaign is a humanitarian initiative rooted in unity, compassion, and cultural responsibility. With a mission to help the people of Jamaica rebuild with care, dignity, and purpose following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, “Shirt Off My Back” mobilizes everyday citizens, local businesses, and global partners to donate quality clothing, food, and essential care items. Beyond emergency relief, the campaign is committed to sustained recovery empowering Jamaican communities to rebuild their lives and restore hope, one contribution at a time.
