My name is Sonya, and I’m raising funds to help deliver emergency relief supplies to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. My husband and I have traveled to Jamaica for years and have built deep connections with the people there. We were in Ocho Rios during the hurricane and witnessed firsthand the hardship faced by local families outside the resort areas. Leaving was heartbreaking, and now that we’re home, we feel compelled to help in a meaningful way.

Jamaica is currently waving import tariffs for hurricane relief items, but shipping costs are still exorbitant. Together with my friend Angel —who I’ve known for 25 years through our husbands’ Army service—and my daughter Brittney, we’re organizing a trip back to Ocho Rios to deliver necessities. We’re working directly with local contacts to identify the most urgent needs. We’ve set up an Amazon registry for donors to send supplies like water purification kits, power banks, solar lights, portable fans, and shower wipes. These items will be shipped to us, and we will be allowed to pack and bring nine suitcases.

If you’d like to send supplies for us to deliver, you can use our Amazon registry:

Amazon Supply Registry

Funds raised beyond that needed for our travel will be donated for generators, food, and additional supplies!

We’re targeting a departure date of November 19 or 20, giving us two weeks to collect supplies and donations. I’m using my airline miles to cover the actual flights but need assistance to cover other costs. Funds raised will cover flight taxes, local transportation, lodging, and meals while we’re on the ground distributing aid. Our friend in Ocho Rios is helping us coordinate a safe place to stay with a generator for two nights. Every contribution will help us get critical supplies directly into the hands of those who need them most, and show the people of Jamaica that they are not alone in this difficult time.