Gatorland Launches Fundraiser for Jamaican Wildlife Conservation Post-Hurricane Melissa

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Related video: Gatorland Global’s efforts in wildlife protection and education

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica and several Caribbean islands, a Florida-based organization is extending its support to two animal conservation centers in need.

Orlando’s Gatorland, an alligator-focused theme park, along with its non-profit branch, Gatorland Global, is setting up an emergency relief fund aimed at assisting these centers as they strive to continue their vital conservation work amid recovery efforts.

Holland Bay Crocodile Sanctuary, located in Amity Hall, and Kingston’s Hope Zoo Preservation Foundation were not directly hit by Hurricane Melissa. However, the entire nation faced severe weather conditions, including heavy rains, strong winds, and widespread power outages.

“We are honored to assist our friends at Hope Zoo Kingston and Holland Bay Crocodile Sanctuary, who urgently need our support to overcome Hurricane Melissa’s destruction,” stated Gatorland President & CEO Mark McHugh. “Our commitment is to stand by them throughout the rebuilding process, helping them restore their facilities to continue their crucial conservation and rehabilitation work, which aligns closely with our mission at Gatorland Global.”

Hope Zoo is a non-profit zoo and wildlife rehabilitation center that is home to a variety of species, including crocodiles, snakes, tortoises, birds and other native animals. They have posted a few updates on their Instagram page, confirming all animals and staff are okay and expressing their thanks for students from the University of the West Indies who are volunteering to help with the clean-up.

Holland Bay Crocodile Sanctuary houses rescued American crocodiles, which are native to and endangered in Jamaica. The center focuses on nursing injured or sick crocs back to health, as well as raising juveniles to help support the wild population.

Gatorland said 100% of the money donated will go to rebuilding and repairing enclosures and habitats, funding animal care and providing water and humanitarian aid to local communities.

You can donate to the emergency relief fund here.