Hello Again Friends and Family,

We are Bill and Deirdre Spafford and are reaching out to you once again but this time with a more personal plea. In the wake of Hurricane Melissa the situation has become dire. Our son in law Sheldon Wallace and grandson live in St. Elizabeth Parrish in Jamaica which was the hardest hit area by Melissa. The devastation is nearly complete and they have lost almost everything. They and their entire community of Accompong town, Maroon village no longer have roofs over their heads. Our son-in-law Sheldon Wallace said that the only thing he could save was our grandson. We are grateful that they both survived. We are doing our best to assist, but it is not nearly enough. The community is suffering and needs immediate financial support for the basics, solar appliances such as lights and chargers, food and shelter. The community has no electricity so solar battery chargers and solar lights will make a huge difference. They have been told that it could be up to 90 days before power is restored. They are desperate and anything will be greatly appreciated. As we collect funds we will post how the funds are being used and items being purchased for the community.

New information

Firstly, we would like to offer our sincerest thank you to our first set of donors. The initial $500 in donations has been used to purchase battery charger, camp stove and bedding. Also we have sent funds to supplement food, water and fuel for the generators. Your donations have been a huge help for the community in these first days. Food and water are basic and essential.

After a few days of assessment this is what has been found: 56 homes have been completely destroyed and will need to be rebuilt entirely. 183 homes need a roof, window and door repair. This is a big ask. However, there are some things that will make a difference right now.

There is no electricity so funds to purchase fuel for generators are needed. There is no internet so a StarLink dish and supporting solar system for batteries and power is also essential. This will enable the community to have much needed access to Jamaican government services for assistance and the outside world. The community is located remotely in the mountains and access is difficult. The estimated funds to reach this goal are approximately $2000. We hope we can count on you to help us achieve this goal.

Please free share the appeal!