As Hurricane Dorian moved over the cold waters of the Labrador Sea and became an extra-tropical storm on Sunday, many communities along the Atlantic are facing the devastation left in its wake.

By far the greatest destruction was in the northern Bahamas, where Dorian planted itself for 48 hours as a monster Category 5 hurricane, obliterating everything in its path and leaving an estimated 70,000 people homeless, according to news reports. So far, the death toll has risen to 45 and is expected to climb as thousands remain missing.

To help with what is expected to be a massive recovery effort, Global DMC Partners and its DMC partner in the Bahamas, Equilibrium Group, are organizing efforts at IMEX America this week as well as online to collect and provide necessary relief items to those affected in the Bahamas. 

All destinations, hoteliers and event planners attending IMEX, taking place Sept. 10-12 at the Sands Expo Convention Center in Las Vegas, are encouraged to bring much-needed supplies or support through monetary donations.

“As with any natural disaster, we want to do all we can to provide assistance, resources and donations to those affected by this terrible tragedy,” said Catherine Chaulet, president and CEO of Global DMC Partners, which will provide donation collection bins at booth #A3013.  

All IMEX attendees and exhibitors are invited to pack and bring any of the following items or consider purchasing supplies locally in Las Vegas for donation:

• Toiletries (un-opened hotel toiletries are welcome)
• Hygiene items
• Can openers
• Mosquito spray
• Sunscreen
• Diapers
• Baby formula
• First aid items
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Tools
• Candles
• New bedding
• New clothing
• New shoes

Donated items will be shipped directly from the trade show to Equilibrium Group’s offices in Davie, Fla. Supplies may also be sent directly to Equilibrium Group at the following address:

Equilibrium Events
Attn: Jessica Schrag
11860 West SR 84; Ste B15
Davie FL 33325 

According to Global DMC Partners officials, since most airports in the affected areas of the Bahamas are currently closed, the only way items can be delivered at this time is by boat or helicopter. Thus, travel providers with boat or helicopter services in South Florida are urgently needed to provide assistance in delivering these goods from Florida to the islands and are encouraged to contact Global DMC Partners or Equilibrium Group directly.

In addition to collecting items at IMEX America, Equilibrium Group has started a GoFundMe page where 100 percent of donations will go to help the people of the Bahamas. Equilibrium’s goal is to raise at least $15,000. To make a donation online, go here.

“Our team and family in the Bahamas are strong and resilient, and with your help, we can make the road to recovery a bit easier,” said Marc Silverstone, president of Equilibrium Group. “Together, we are #Bahamasstrong.”

Don't miss any event-related news: sign up for our weekly e-Newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!