My Twin in Montego Bay

I'm Kirstin Francis and my Twin brother, Martin Francis, has lived in Montego Bay, Jamaica for more than 30 years. He’s spent those decades giving his all — creating jobs for local people, and helping shape better futures for those around him.

In September, his son had just started university in Kingston — a clever lad with big ambitions.

Then came Hurricane Melissa, crashing through Martin’s part of the island and leaving devastation in its wake.

I’ve only managed to speak to him twice since. He still has no power, no internet, and life around him is far from normal — and won’t be for quite some time.

As an ex-Army man, Martin’s attitude remains steadfast: keep calm, rebuild, help others. That’s what he’s doing — supporting his local community as best he can.

But financially, he’s been hit hard. His biggest worries aren’t for himself, but for his staff — loyal Jamaicans who’ve stood by him for years, through COVID and beyond — and for his son’s education.

His tourism business is at a standstill, and it’s unclear when visitors will return, or when “normal” might mean anything again. Right now, he’s trying to find a way to get money physically to his team, even though he can’t as yet contact them directly.

Martin has always been supportive. Now, he needs help himself — so he can keep helping his community rebuild.

Please consider donating whatever you can, or sharing this page to spread the word. Every gesture, big or small, will make a difference in Montego Bay and for my Twinnie.

Thank you

Kirstin Francis

(Worried Sister)