Jamaicans in South Florida recently gathered in fellowship at the Holy Family Episcopal Church in Miami to pray for hope and encouragement for victims in the aftermath of Hurricane Dean which raged through the Caribbean region, earlier this week.

The Reverend Horace Ward who led the congregation in prayer called for thanksgiving “as Jamaicans were spared the worst, he added.

In expressing appreciation to those who had joined in worship, Pastor Ward also called for partnership within the Diaspora to help those who were affected by the Hurricane.

The members of that church which represent some 16 nationalities worldwide, have begun a collection drive at that location.

Commissioner Winston Barnes of Miramar in his address, also urged congregants to look for ways to help families, friends and loved ones at home in their quest to reconstruct their lives.

As victims sought assurance and consolation at this time, Mr. Barnes urged the community to be vigilante and unite as “there was much to do collectively,” he added.

Jamaican Diaspora Advisory Board representative for the southern USA, Mr. Marlon Hill also echoed sentiments for unity and support as the Diaspora begun its collection efforts.

Meanwhile, the Consulate has started a collection fund to assist recovery efforts at home. Money orders can be mailed to the office at 25 Southeast Second Avenue, Suite 609, Miami, Florida 33131.

Messages of support were read from the Office of the Jamaican Consulate as well as from the Mayor of Miami Gardens, Ms. Shirley Gibson.