Hello Friends!
As many of you know, on October 28, Hurricane Melissa made direct landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm with winds of up to 185 mph, torrential rainfall and life-threatening storm surges. This storm was one of the most intense Atlantic hurricanes ever recorded causing widespread destruction across the Island. As a result, approximately 77% of Jamaica has been without power and cost an estimated $7 billion USD worth of damage to critical infrastructure and business sectors. While the Jamaican government and nonprofit organizations are working tirelessly to rebuild and provide aid, many rural communities have difficulty receiving aid in as quickly. The isolation is profound: while international relief organizations mobilize resources for Kingston and larger population centers, remote farming communities wait.
That said, our family has close ties to a small hamlet in the Parish of Manchester called Chantilly. In fact, this is where we have spent a significant portion of our childhoods across generations. It is a rural farming community with approximately 2,000 residents. Similar to other rural communities, it was heavily hit with widespread roof and building damage, flooding, blocked roads and downed power lines. While we have minimal influence on the pace in which the government will work on fixing infrastructure (potentially taking months), we directly influence the aid these local residents can receive and the comfortability of their living environment.
Additionally, there is a dedicated effort in rebuilding the Chantilly Primary and Infant School which has suffered significant damages, rendering it condemned for the foreseeable future. Given that this school serves the local children between ages 6-12, they are forced to seek alternative means which may not be a current priority as they are dealing with the aftermath of a Category 5 hurricane.
Therefore, we humbly ask for support in rebuilding and supporting the local community as they recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Even small contributions can make an enormous difference!
We're utilizing the funds to provide: portable solar lighting systems and gas powered generators to restore basic safety and dignity, waterproof materials to protect families and Chantilly Primary School from ongoing weather/ animal occupancy, non-perishable food/water supplies for those whose crops were destroyed, clothing, toiletries, and educational materials so children don't lose an entire school year.
Currently, the Jamaican government has temporarily suspended customs duties and General Consumption Tax (GCT) on goods imported to help expedite the delivery of essential relief supplies. This extension is through December 31, 2025.
There are various nonprofit organizations created in support of Jamaica Hurricane Relief efforts. Although deeply appreciated, we strongly believe the best way to ensure the resources are allocated directly to the community is by overseeing the process yourself. Our priority is ensuring that the most vulnerable communities are able to receive the aid they desperately need.
On behalf of the South and Henry Family of Chantilly, Manchester, Jamaica (NYC-based relatives), we deeply thank you for considering support for our community during this critical time of need.
Sincerely,
Toni-Marie Trombley, Jacqueline (South) Dawkins, and Sherry (Southe) Tyme