Hello, my name is Chanalee . I was born in Falmouth, Trelawny , and grew up in Bounty Hall, Jamaica a close-knit rural community where neighbors are like family. I now live in Toronto, Canada, but my heart remains deeply connected to home, especially now after the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.

The eye of the storm passed directly over our community, bringing violent winds, heavy rain, and massive flooding. Many homes including my own family’s were completely destroyed. My grandmother, who is currently bedridden, along with my aunt, brother, cousins, and their children, have all suffered severe losses. Roofs were ripped away, walls collapsed, and furniture, clothing, and food supplies were washed out or ruined. Most of the houses, which were made of board, did not stand a chance against the force of the storm.

Right now, my family is struggling to meet basic daily needs clean water, food, clothing, baby essentials, and materials to rebuild. The community is without consistent electricity or running water, and prices for construction materials and food have gone up due to high demand and limited access.

From Toronto, I’m doing everything I can to coordinate relief support and send help directly to my brother in Jamaica, who will manage the purchase and distribution of emergency supplies, food, water, clothing, tarpaulins, baby items, and rebuilding materials to our immediate family. Every dollar raised through this campaign will go directly to these efforts, with full transparency.

I’ve always tried to help however I can. In early October, I sent down six barrels of supplies a routine effort I’ve made over the years to support my family and community. I already have a trip planned to Jamaica in December to clear those barrels and distribute items, but due to the urgent situation, I’m now hoping to travel earlier. My goal is to pack and ship two to three large TuffStore storage bins filled with baby supplies, baby food, dry goods, bottled water, blankets, flashlights, batteries, gloves, and first-aid items to provide comfort and safety to those most affected.

This has been an emotionally heavy and overwhelming time. Seeing photos and videos of the destruction from afar has been heartbreaking, and not being there physically to help my loved ones has been even harder. But I believe that together through kindness, faith, and community support we can make a real difference.

Any donation, big or small, will help bring relief and hope to my family and community. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign so we can reach others who may be able to assist.

Thank you so much for your compassion, generosity, and prayers during this time. Every act of love and support helps us move one step closer to rebuilding.

One Love,

❤️ Chanalee Samuels