My name is Mahalia Richards, and I’m from Black River, St. Elizabeth. I grew up in this beautiful, historic town — I have a home on Crane Road, where I lived most of my life. My friends and many of my childhood neighbors still live there. Though I now reside in London, my mother still lives in Black River, and this town remains the heart of who I am.

On October 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa, a devastating Category 5 storm, made direct landfall on Black River. In a matter of hours, it destroyed nearly everything in its path. What was once a vibrant, historic community on Jamaica’s southern coast is now unrecognizable — homes flattened, businesses gone, and families displaced.

A Town with a Proud History — Now in Ruins

Black River has always held a special place in Jamaica’s history. It was the first town in Jamaica to have electricity and motorcars, a proud symbol of progress and resilience. Generations have built their lives here, surrounded by the river, the sea, and the warmth of community.

But Hurricane Melissa changed everything.

The storm surge swallowed entire streets, the river overflowed, and winds exceeding 160 mph tore through homes, schools, and churches. There is no town left. What remains are fragments of memories and the strength of the people who survived.

Uninsured Families, Total Loss

Many of the families affected were unable to afford home insurance, especially those living near the coast. Over the years, insurance premiums for beachfront and riverside homes became impossibly high, forcing many hardworking families to take the risk of living without coverage.

Now, with everything gone, there is no safety net — no financial aid, no compensation, just loss and despair.

Why I’m Raising Funds

This fundraiser is for my town, my community, my friends, and my neighbors — the people who shaped my life.

The funds raised will be used directly to help the residents of Black River begin the long process of rebuilding and recovery. Specifically, donations will go toward:

Replacing roofs torn off by the storm

Pumping water out of flooded homes and community areas

Helping families rebuild their houses to at least a livable state

Providing temporary housing for those who have lost everything

Supplying basic needs — food, water, and essential supplies

Supporting cleanup efforts as the community works to restore safety and stability

Every dollar will go directly to on-the-ground rebuilding and relief efforts for the families most affected. I am working closely with local residents and volunteers in Black River to make sure all funds are used transparently and effectively.

Together, We Can Bring Black River Back

Black River has stood for centuries as a symbol of Jamaica’s progress, unity, and strength. Now, it needs our help more than ever.

Please join me in supporting the people of this incredible town. Your donation — no matter how small — will help restore hope, dignity, and shelter to those who have lost everything.

Thank you for helping us rebuild Black River, for standing with my community, and for giving hope where it’s needed most.

Every dollar counts. Every share matters. Every act of kindness brings us closer to rebuilding home.