Hurricane Irma Relief - Jeff & STJ

On Wednesday, September 6 Irma quickly grew to a category 5 hurricane and St John took a direct hit. St John is the smallest of the three US Virgin Islands and has suffered the most damage. The recovery efforts will take months and likely years before it is back to its lush green landscape, pristine beaches, and friendly beach side bars.



The impacts of Hurricane Irma touched Lisa and I personally as her brother Jeff is a permanent resident of St John. The first thing Jeff says each time we step off the ferry is WELCOME HOME! Despite growing up together in Connecticut St John has truly become home in their hearts. We have not heard from Jeff directly due to lack of power and cell service. While we wait *impatiently* this idea was born...

St John is a tourist destination with only has 4,000 permanent residents. We fear that tourists won't be visiting STJ anytime soon. As a result we want to collect funds for Jeff and his Island Family to keep them supplied with whatever they need to return the island to "visitor ready" as
soon as possible. Once we talk to Jeff we will update and let you know exactly how we are going to distribute the funds on the island.

Anything you could provide would be greatly appreciated and one last thing - keep St John in mind when you are thinking about a relaxing beach vacation!!

The heartbreaking photos can be seen here