Hey friends,

Some of you may or may not know, but most of my family currently lives in Jamaica, my mother, grandmother, brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families. Only a few of my siblings are here in Canada.

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart. I don’t usually turn to the internet for help, but the recent hurricane that tore through Jamaica has left my family and their communities devastated. There’s currently no power, food supplies are running out, and many have lost everything.

The funds raised will go toward helping my family and the surrounding communities of Petersfield and Hertford Districts in Westmoreland, as well as Ward Avenue in Mandeville, rebuild and access essential supplies such as food, clean water, building materials, and other necessities.

While the entire island has been severely affected, these are the communities I’m in direct contact with. Many residents have no way to reach out for assistance. The roads are blocked by debris, and gas stations, grocery stores, schools, hospitals, and banks have all been destroyed.

My cousin who lives in Westmoreland lost his entire home in the storm. It was completely flattened, leaving him with nothing but the clothes on his back. Another cousin, also in Westmoreland, is in her third trimester and due on November 24th. She has already started feeling labor pains, but with the nearest hospital destroyed, she has very few safe options to deliver her baby. My elderly mother, who lives alone in Mandeville, has also suffered severe damage to parts of her home and is now being forced to make the difficult decision to leave her life in Jamaica behind and return to Canada for her safety.

This is only what I’ve heard so far. My family’s story is just one of thousands across Jamaica and I know there are others facing even more devastating losses. That’s why these funds are not only for my loved ones, but for everyone in their communities who has been left without resources or support.

Being one of the few family members who doesn’t live in Jamaica, I’m doing everything I can to be a voice for my people. We truly need help. Anything you can give no matter how small will make a difference and help them begin to rebuild their lives.

In addition to this GoFundMe, I’ll also be packing a barrel to send back home. If you’d like to donate food, clothing, baby supplies, or any other essential items, please reach out. I’m more than happy to pick up donations if you’re in the Toronto area.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, for keeping my family and their communities in your thoughts, and for any help you can offer. ❤️

With love and gratitude,

Phylicia