On October 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa swept across Jamaica, destroying crops, washing away roads and causing extensive damage to homes across several communities where our family lives. Many houses are built of concrete and remained standing, but roofs were torn off, wooden extensions were demolished, and floodwaters and high winds ruined interiors, furniture and belongings. Our relatives and neighbours now live day to day without reliable access to clean water, food, clothing or shelter. Some must walk miles to the nearest town just to get mobile reception or charge a phone. Others are trying to rebuild while grappling with trauma and uncertainty about the future. Among the hardest‑hit areas is the rural district of Kilmarnock, home to the Foster family, where the need for aid is especially urgent.

Our family has deep roots across central and western parts of Jamaica, with cousins and neighbours in a number of small communities. We’re organising this fundraiser to help all of them recover from the storm, while giving special attention to Kilmarnock’s high need. Donations will go directly toward relief efforts, including:

• Water: contracting a water truck and purchasing large containers so each household has enough safe drinking water.

• Food: non‑perishable foods like tinned goods, rice and flour to feed families until crops and markets recover.

• Clothing and shoes: many people lost everything in the storm; we will collect and distribute clothing and footwear to replace items damaged by wind and flood.

• Rebuilding supplies and household essentials: tarpaulins, plywood and roofing materials to repair damaged roofs, as well as bedding, appliances and other essentials to replace furniture and belongings destroyed by water.

• Emotional support: connecting residents with counsellors and community volunteers to help cope with the trauma.

Any donation (large or small) will make a difference. We are also accepting clothing donations; if you have gently used or new clothing to contribute, please reach out through the campaign’s contact option for instructions. Together, we can help our family and their communities rebuild their lives and restore hope in the face of devastation.

Thank you for standing with us.

Likkle but wi Tallawah!