<div>For those who may not know me personally, my name is <strong>Manga Mwazi, and Jamaica has been a second home to me for over ten years. </strong>What started as travel eventually became a deep part of my life — I spent years going back and forth, and eventually lived there full-time. The people I met along the way became my community, my support system, and truly, my chosen family. Even now that I reside back in NYC, my heart remains connected to the island and the people who shaped so much of who I am.


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<div>Just 24 hours before Hurricane Melissa made landfall, I happened to fly out — unaware that I was leaving a disaster behind. The moment the storm hit, relief quickly turned into heartache. Entire communities were shaken. Homes lost roofs, roads washed out, families were displaced, and many are now facing food insecurity, unsafe living conditions, and the painful uncertainty of how to rebuild.


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<div>In the weeks since, my partners and I refused to stay still. We have already taken action and have:


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<div>Fed seven families with groceries and essential supplies


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<div>Repaired and replaced roofing for one family’s home


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<div>Connected with community contacts to identify those in the greatest need — especially elders and children


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<div>But the need remains urgent — and much bigger than what we can tackle alone.


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<div>Where Your Donation Will Go


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<div>Every dollar raised will directly support families impacted by Hurricane Melissa, with complete transparency.


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<div>Funds will be used for:


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<li><strong>Adopting individual families so we can provide ongoing support and share updates with donors.</strong>


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</ul><img class="text-editor_textEditorImage__43_GE" alt="" media_type="3" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/96723135_1763664005765450_r." width="100%" />


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<li><strong>Food packages and groceries, ensuring consistent access to nourishing meals.</strong>


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<li><strong>Clean, safe drinking water and sanitation essentials, especially where infrastructure has been compromised.</strong>


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<li><strong>Roofing and home repairs, helping restore safety and stability.</strong>


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</ul><img class="text-editor_textEditorImage__43_GE" alt="" media_type="3" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/96723135_176366421955754_r." width="100%" />


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<li><strong>Care packages for children and elders, including hygiene supplies, bedding, school items, and basic medical needs.</strong>


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<div>This isn’t just about emergency relief — it’s about rebuilding lives with dignity, care, and consistency.


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<div>Updates, Accountability &amp; Community


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<div>We believe in transparency and connection. As families are supported, we will share progress, photos, and updates so donors can see the impact of their contribution.


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<div><strong><em>This is not charity — it’s community.</em></strong>


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<div><strong><em>It’s showing up for people who are trying to rebuild after loss.</em></strong>


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<div><strong><em>It’s honoring the belief that when one of us thrives, we all do.</em></strong>


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Shakela Wilkerson

Nina Richie

Together for Jamaica: Rebuilding One Family at a Time!

Still $3,040 to go. Help us build momentum.