Hurricane Dorian struck the northern Bahamas as a Category 5 storm on Sunday, September 1, before stalling over the northern islands for two days. One of the strongest Atlantic storms in history, and the strongest ever to hit the Bahamas, Dorian’s record 185 mph winds damaged over 13,000 houses, overturned cars and tore down power lines as hundreds hunkered down in schools, churches and shelters. Although the brunt of the storm was borne by the northern islands, especially in the Abacos, much of the area, including Nassau, New Providence, continues to experience heavy rainfall and flooding.

In response to the storm, CLF is deploying two emergency response grants. The first is being deployed to World Central Kitchen (WCK), a not-for-profit organization founded by chef José Andres that provides meals in the wake of natural disasters. Chef José and the WCK relief team were one of the first nonprofit organizations on the ground and have been scrambling to cook as many meals and prepare as many sandwiches and meals for serving and delivery to those in need. The team is currently mapping out additional operations on Great Abaco and Grand Bahama. Follow their progress here.

The second grant will be disbursed to Direct Relief to support the organization’s medical aid efforts. Funding will enable the delivery of emergency health kits containing chronic care medications, acute care resources, and supplies for medical professionals, as well as needed medicines for thousands of people.