Support for Melissa and Nolan!

Melissa and Nolan, from Rincon, Puerto Rico, are parents to two beautiful kids, Anala (4y) and Koa (2y). Like so many others, they have lost much due to the ferocity of hurricane Maria tearing apart the community of Rincon, a tiny town on the west side of Puerto Rico. Up to now, they have had a successful small surf school (which Melissa established shortly after moving to Rincon more than 15 years ago) and surf shop, both of which are family run businesses which depend on the tourism industry for support. Hurricane Maria has ensured that all income is lost from these sources, leaving most of Rincon without work. At this point, like so many, they are without any income to rebuild their lives. 

Rincon currenty has no power, little gas, no food in the grocery stores, and few ways to communicate with the outside world. Just recently a hot spot was set up so that folks could call their loved ones through FB messenger and other internet-based communication tools. We know that many of you have been trying to get in touch with Melissa and Nolan, asking how you can help. 

In this funding drive, we are asking for help so that they can pay rent and utlities for their home and shop for the next 6-9 months while they work with others clean up their community and repair the damage of Maria. At that point, they can once again open their community to travelers and surfers from all over the world, recovering and thriving in this tightknit community. Any amount you can share will go towards their direct needs. Any amount above their needs will be shared with the wider community. 

Once mail is up and going, we will also share a list of items that they might need, or that are needed in the wider community. Please stay in touch to learn how else you might be able to help their sweet family, as well as the wider community or Rincon, PR. Thank you so much in advance- your generocity is so appreciated.