Airbnb.org, a nonprofit organization established by Airbnb, is providing free emergency housing for first responders affected by Hurricane Melissa. The initiative is part of an initial response effort in collaboration with groups such as All Hands & Hearts and Haiti Air Ambulance. These organizations are helping to secure accommodations for their teams responding to the crisis.
Airbnb.org is also coordinating with local nonprofits and government officials in Caribbean countries impacted by the hurricane, including Jamaica. The organization aims to identify and assist displaced residents once conditions are safe enough for support efforts to proceed.
According to Airbnb.org, governments and nonprofit partners play a key role in identifying those most in need of temporary shelter. They refer first responders and residents requiring housing assistance to Airbnb.org, which then provides credits that can be used to book stays through the Airbnb platform. Impacted individuals are encouraged to check airbnb.org/hurricanemelissa for updates on available resources.
“Airbnb.org is a nonprofit organization founded by Airbnb that connects people to emergency housing in times of crisis. Airbnb.org uses the Airbnb platform to connect people who need a place to stay with Airbnb hosts willing to share theirs. 100 percent of all donations go directly to providing emergency housing in times of crisis. Since its founding in 2020, Airbnb.org has provided 1.6 million nights of free, temporary housing to more than 250,000 people.”
In recent years, Airbnb.org has responded to various disasters by offering free temporary accommodation for those displaced by events such as flooding in central Texas, tornadoes in Kentucky, wildfires in Los Angeles, and an earthquake on Japan’s Noto Peninsula.
The organization notes that it does not provide direct housing offers for individuals at this time; instead, referrals must come from partner organizations or officials. Those seeking help or wishing to support relief efforts are advised to visit airbnb.org/hurricanemelissa for current information.
