Over the last fifteen days, the Caribbean has been devasted by one of the most powerful and destructive hurricanes in decades: Hurricane Ivan. Ivan, a Category V hurricane, began wreaking havoc in the southeast Caribbean with its 140-160 mph winds and torrential rains, obliterating anything it encountered. In its wake, Ivan levied record property damage in the islands and claimed the lives of dozens of unfortunate victims.
Worst hit was Grenada, where 90% of residences were destroyed. Jamaica was spared the brunt of the hurricane, however the island remains under martial law and food shelters are running out of food. Essential services such as electricity and running water have yet to be fully restored on either island. The governments of Cuba and the Cayman islands continue to account for missing persons and assess the extent of the damage.
Many in the HBS community have been unaware of the Hurricane, the scope of its devastation, and the urgency of need it left in its wake. Others have wavered between frustration, concern and empathy for the victims of the hurricane. Many have asked, “What can I do to help?”, and have offered multiple strategies. Amidst the distress, the Caribbean Business Club (CBC), on behalf of the HBS community, is channeling this energy into a meaningful contribution to the affected islands. The CBC has partnered with other Harvard clubs to pool resources in fundraising efforts and to contribute time and support to our Caribbean neighbors.
Editor’s note: For more information on the CBC’s hurricane relief efforts, please email kwilliams@mba2006.hbs.edu.