Hello everyone,
My mum, Shelagh, and I are reaching out on behalf of our beloved mother and grandmother, Gwendolyn Banton, who lives in the parish of Saint Elizabeth on the southern coast of Jamaica, which has been badly effected by Hurricane Beryl.
At 94 years old, she has lived a long and rich life, filled with love and family. Sadly, her home, built by her late husband Rupert, suffered severe damage during the storm, with the roof being torn off.
Gwen, who is in remarkably good health for her age, is currently taking refuge with her dedicated carer, Silvi (pictured above). While she is safe and cared for, she longs to return to the comfort and familiarity of her own home, a place filled with cherished memories.
Our current dilemma
As all of her descendants (ourselves included) are based in the UK, and power has yet to be restored to the area of St. Elizabeth where Gwen lives, we're unable to get a clear understanding of the extent of the damage. All that we know so far was passed through other relatives in the U.S. who were able to make contact the day after Beryl passed the island.
So until we can regain communication we don't really know exactly how much we need to raise, but considering that the house has lost at least some of its roof there will no doubt be some damage to appliances, furnishings and possibly the structure as well.
As her family (including children all the way to great-great-grandchildren), we are committed to returning her home to a liveable condition. However, the type of damage it has sustained requires urgent and potentially extensive repairs that are beyond our means. This is why we are turning to the kindness and generosity of others for support.
Our aim
Our main goal is to restore the roof and structure of the building so it it can be lived in once again. If we are able to raise enough funds we would also like to be able to replace any damaged appliances and furnishings so that Gwen's home can return to something close to the level of comfort she is used to.
For transparency
As GoFundMe doesn't operate in Jamaica we've had to set this fund locally, and won't be able to transfer the funds directly to her once the fundraiser has been completed. We will need to make the necessary transfers so that the funds can be available to Silvi so she can arrange for the repair work to take place.
As much as is possible we will update this story to document the whole process, damage to the house and process of repair as and when things progress.
We humbly ask for your assistance in helping us raise the funds needed to repair the roof and restore her home. Every contribution, no matter how small, will bring us closer to our goal and enable my Nanna to return to the place she holds dear.
Your support will not only help rebuild a house but also restore the heart and soul of a great-great grandmother who has given so much to her family and community.
With Sincere thanks,
Anton, Shelagh and Family
