My name is Jamila, and I’m asking for your help to support my family back home in Portland, Jamaica, after Hurricane Melissa devastated the island this week. As you’ve likely seen on the news, this storm brought unimaginable destruction across Jamaica. About 85% of the island has been left without electricity, water, or access to basic supplies. Roads are blocked, communication lines are down, and getting food and clean water has become a daily struggle for thousands of families, including my own. My parents and sibling are still in our family home, doing their best to stay safe and hopeful despite the circumstances. Thankfully, their home is still standing, though it has suffered property damage, and they’ve been without power and running water for days, with no idea of when those resources will return. Hearing their voices fade in and out over spotty connections has been heartbreaking, and it’s difficult knowing I’m so far away and can’t be there in person to help.

I now live in Canada, but Jamaica is where I was born and raised, it will always be home. Over the past few days, many of my friends and coworkers have reached out asking how they can help. This fundraiser is my way of channeling that kindness into something that can make a real difference right now. All funds raised will go directly toward providing food, clean water, emergency supplies, and assistance with basic repairs for my family and their neighbors who are also struggling. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help bring relief and hope to people who have lost so much.

For those who wish to donate on a broader scale to support the national relief efforts, the Government of Jamaica has established an official disaster relief fund at https://supportjamaica.gov.jm/

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has reached out, shared words of comfort, or offered to help. Your support means more than I can express. Jamaica is resilient, and while recovery will be a long road, we will rebuild and rise again.