Hi there! We are Mead Orchards , the Hudson Valley’s original pick-your-own farm in Tivoli, NY, and we are reaching out to support two of our incredible employees whose homes were devastated by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.

Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025, as a powerful Category 5 storm, causing widespread destruction from torrential rains, fierce winds and severe flooding.

Fabian Veira is our orchard manager and all-around genius at fixing things - he keeps Mead’s tractors, trucks and equipment running. You might have seen him at the PYO farm stand up at the orchard on weekends. He’s back in Jamaica now and focusing on fixing what he can for his extended family and neighbors. Fabian’s immediate family includes his wife, daughter, son and elderly parents, whose home lost its roof during the hurricane.

Shaine Smith is our assistant orchard manager. He runs our Hastings Farmers Market booth every Saturday and pitches in with the orchard hayride on Sundays. Shaine’s home was completely destroyed and is unlivable; he will need to rebuild from the ground up.

We are aiming to raise $15,000 to help these two invaluable members of our team. Funds will be distributed directly to Fabian and Shaine to help cover Fabian’s new roof and Shaine’s full home rebuild.

Your support will make a world of difference to these families and help our orchard family recover from this tragedy. Every donation counts. Thank you for helping neighbors in need. ❤️

PHOTO GALLERY: Fabian

Meet Fabian: With our famous Apple Cider Doughnuts (left) and with his adorable family at the Jamaica Zoo (right)

Fabian’s parents at his house after Hurricane Melissa - The roof collapsed and is now covered for protection

Fabian’s house after Hurricane Melissa - Details of the significant roof damage. All needs to be rebuilt.

PHOTO GALLERY: Shaine

Meet Shaine: At our Hastings Farmers Market (left) and at the helm of our Orchard Hayride (right)

Shaine’s house after Hurricane Melissa - Total devastation and collapse

Shaine’s house after Hurricane Melissa - House wreckage & water damage