My name is Ysanne Spence and I am a proud Jamaican. For those who know me personally, you know how near and dear my country is to me and who I am as an individual - the accomplishments that led me to where I am and beyond are a direct result of growing up in Jamaica.

Yesterday, our island of Jamaica was devastated by Hurricane Melissa, and more specifically, Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth—the town where my father grew up and where I spent every holiday with my late great grandma—has catastrophic damage.

The destruction is overwhelming, and countless families have lost their homes and belongings. St. Elizabeth holds a special place in my heart, and my family’s, but today, it desperately needs our help.

If you can, please consider making a donation of any size. Every bit will go directly to support immediate recovery efforts for the people of Santa Cruz, organized by my family.