Project Re-Root: Help Latoya recover from Hurricane Beryl

Hello everyone,

My name is Racheal Callaghan, and I am organizing this fundraiser to support my fellow YLAI Fellow, Latoya Rattray-Ellis, a dedicated farmer from a deep rural community in Clarendon, Jamaica. Latoya has always been passionate about farming and has worked tirelessly to cultivate her land.

Before the devastating Hurricane Beryl, Latoya had successfully cultivated over 1,000 hills of yam, nearly an acre of Irish potatoes, and carrots. Her hard work was evident in the thriving crops she tended daily. However, Hurricane Beryl caused unprecedented destruction to her farm, leaving her with significant losses.

*After Hurricane Beryl:*

- *Yams:* 1,700 hills (1,500 Yellow Yam, 200 Negro Yam) were blown down.

Estimated loss: JMD $3,500,000 (USD $22,000)

- *Irish Potatoes:* Ten bags planted and destroyed.

Estimated loss: JMD $400,000 (USD $2,600)

- *Carrots:* 1.5 lbs planted and destroyed.

Estimated loss: JMD $600,000 (USD $3,900)

*Total Estimated Loss:* JMD $4,500,000 (USD $28,500)

Despite these losses, Latoya is determined to rebuild her farm, LAE Farms. Our immediate goal is to raise funds to help her purchase yam sticks and restalk the yam vines, which are crucial for getting her yam fields back to a stage where they can be replanted for future reaping.

Latoya's resilience and dedication to farming inspire us all. Any support you can provide will make a significant difference in helping her get back on her feet and continue her passion for farming.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Sincerely,

Racheal Callaghan / Jherane Patmore

YLAI Fellows 2024