Hello everyone,

My name is Carmalee Smith-Hammond and I am a Registered Nurse working at Princeton Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama. I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica, a place that will always be home to me.

Recently, a Category 5 hurricane(Hurricane Melissa) tore through Jamaica, leaving a trail of destruction that many families and community members are still struggling to recover from. My family in the parishes of Clarendon, St. Ann and St. Elizabeth was deeply affected; their roofs were blown off, their homes severely damaged, and much of what they owned was destroyed.

The funds raised through this campaign will go directly to my father, aunts, uncles, siblings, and cousins, who are now trying to rebuild their lives after this devastating storm.

We are working to rebuild as many family homes as possible. The donations will help us purchase zinc sheets, lumber, and other building materials to repair and replace what was lost.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward helping my family and neighbors in need. Funds will be used for:

• Roofing materials, lumber, and construction costs to rebuild homes

• Food and essential household items

• Clothing and supplies for children and elderly family members affected by the storm

We’ll be sharing photos of the damages and updates on how every dollar is used, so you can see the real difference your generosity is making.

Even the smallest donation can bring hope to my family and others in our community who have lost so much. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word.

From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of my entire family in Jamaica, thank you for your love, compassion, and support during this difficult time. Together, we can help them rebuild not just their homes, but their hope.

With gratitude,

Carmalee Smith-Hammond