Hi everyone, my name’s Mickela. I’m organizing this fundraiser for families in Ballynure, Manchester, Jamaica — including my own — who were deeply affected by Hurricane Melissa. My mom partly grew up in Ballynure, and it’s where a lot of my family still lives. I’ll be helping coordinate everything both from here and on the ground to make sure every dollar goes straight to the people who need it most.

On Tuesday, October 27th, Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica and my family’s community of Ballynure, Manchester was hit especially hard. Many residents have lost their homes, roofs, crops, and livelihoods, and are still without power and basic necessities.

Ballynure is a small, deep-rural farming community that often goes unseen and unheard during national disasters. It’s not a place with much outside help — but it’s filled with hardworking, loving people who deserve the same chance to rebuild and recover.

This GoFundMe will help my family other families in Ballynure who’ve been directly affected.

100% of donations will go directly toward purchasing and delivering essential items like food, clean water, cooking supplies, tarps, nails, and materials to repair roofs, hygiene products and toiletries, bedding, clothing, and baby items. Some supplies will be bought in Jamaica, while others will be shipped from overseas using funds raised here.

A small, trusted team on the ground, including myself and my mother once we arrive, will coordinate and ensure everything reaches the families most in need. Live photos and updates will be shared once distribution starts so donors can see exactly where their contributions are going.

If you’re able to give, no amount is too small. You can also donate physical items such as food, toiletries, bedding, clothes, or shoes — I’ll be sharing an Amazon wishlist where those can be purchased directly.

Even though it’ll take a lot to rebuild Ballynure, this fundraiser will stay open only until recovery is complete, then it’ll be officially closed.

Thank you for helping us bring hope and stability back to a small community that truly needs it. Every donation helps rebuild a roof, feed a family, and remind Ballynure that the world hasn’t forgotten them.