I’m numb inside. Words cannot describe the unimaginable devastation my dear country of Jamaica has suffered following the passage of Hurricane Melissa. We are no strangers to tropical storms and hurricanes, but this is by far the MOST DEVASTATING we’ve experienced. Hurricane Melissa, with maximum sustained winds of 185 m/hr, has wreaked havoc on Western Jamaica, which includes my hometown and community. The damage has been CATASTROPHIC. The videos are heart-wrenching, and collectively as a country, we are struggling to come to terms with what really transpired.

Families have been displaced, with over 90% of residents currently without shelter as roofs have been obliterated. There is currently no electricity or telecommunication as power lines are down and damaged. Supermarkets, churches, schools, banks, and fast food facilities are not operating due to widespread structural damage. There is growing food insecurity, and access to clean potable water is a challenge.

This too shall pass; at the end of the dark clouds, there will be a silver lining. This has certainly shown everyone how fragile life really is.

I am humbly and graciously asking for your help to support those desperately in need back home in Jamaica. Yes, the government is mobilizing resources to render assistance, but there’s so much more to do, and with more hands on deck, the quicker we can restore a sense of normalcy. With your kind and generous donation, you will be helping families to rise above these dark and difficult times. Donations will be used to obtain building supplies, food, toiletries, water, and other essential items. Little is enough once God is in it No matter how small your contribution is, it will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you and God bless you.

Sincerely,

Christene B.