Hurricane Melissa has devastated parts of Jamaica, leaving many families and communities in desperate need of help. We are raising funds to support relief efforts in two areas close to our hearts: Long Bay and Copse.

Long Bay is home to Ambassadors for Christ School, and Copse is the location of West Haven Children’s Home. Copse is also where our friend Moneika’s family lives. These are communities we have come to know and love deeply over the years.

My name is Erin Gilday, and I spent 20 years helping organize and lead service projects in the northwest of Jamaica. These trips were through Seton High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Thomas More College in Crestview Hills, Kentucky. The people in the areas we will be helping formed close bonds with the students from the United States who went on these trips. The friendships and shared experiences changed the lives of the students, and the kindness and generosity of the Jamaican people left a lasting impact on all of us.

All funds raised will be sent directly to our friend Gary, who will make sure the money reaches those who need it most. Gary, who currently resides in Florida but will be making multiple trips to Jamaica soon, has been a trusted friend for over 20 years, serving as our guide, bodyguard, translator, and brother when we led service trips with students from Thomas More College to Jamaica. We trust Gary completely to use these funds to directly support the families and organizations most affected by the storm.

Every donation, big or small, will go directly to the people of Jamaica to rebuild homes, provide food, clothing, and essential supplies, and help restore hope in these beloved communities.

Thank you for helping us make a real and personal impact where it’s needed most.