My name is Shelley, and I am a Jamaican living in the United States with my heart in absolute pieces watching what Hurricane Melissa has done to my island. The destruction is beyond anything we imagined. Homes have collapsed. Communities have been washed away. Mothers are holding hungry babies with no way to feed them. Families are standing in ruins, trying to stay hopeful in the middle of shock, grief, and uncertainty.

Recent reports indicate that at least 47 lives have been lost, with others still missing or unaccounted for. In the aftermath, Jamaica is now facing a surge of waterborne illnesses, including leptospirosis, which has already taken lives and left many extremely vulnerable.

As if the hurricane’s destruction was not enough, ongoing fires in the hills and cave areas have further complicated recovery efforts. These fires are stretching emergency resources, limiting access to certain communities, and slowing the support that families desperately need.

The people of Jamaica are strong. They are resilient. However, they are devastated, displaced, and doing their best to survive in circumstances no family should ever have to face. Help is coming, but it is slow, and the need is far greater than what has reached these communities so far.

That is why I am raising funds specifically for mothers, babies, and families in the hardest-hit communities, in partnership with three trusted churches in Jamaica. These churches are on the ground every day, they know their communities personally, and they will distribute supplies directly to the families who need them most.

Your donation will help provide:

• Baby formula and baby food

• Diapers, wipes, and essentials for babies and toddlers

• Food support for families caring for infants and young children

• Basic emergency supplies for mothers with babies

• Hygiene items, clean water, and sanitary necessities

• Clothing for children and adults, along with limited emergency shelter support

Every dollar raised will be used to fill barrels with essential items and ship them directly to these churches for immediate distribution. This effort is legitimate, transparent, and community-centered. Nothing is wasted and nothing is diverted. We will post updates and pictures so you can see where your donation is going.

Your kindness will help a mother, feed a baby, and help a family get through this very difficult time.

If you cannot donate right now, please share this campaign.

Thank you for giving, for sharing, and for standing with Jamaica as we rebuild.