Supporting Carriacou, Grenada following Hurricane Beryl

https://youtu.be/zUMY5CuQSzQ?si=4w5AkVjvs2M_9sHn

Dear Supporters and Readers,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you on behalf of the people of Carriacou, a small island in the Caribbean that has recently been devastated by Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm. On Monday 1st July 2024, the hurricane ripped through Carriacou and neighbouring islands and has left a trail of destruction in its wake; with homes destroyed, infrastructure damaged, and many lives upended. The people of Carriacou are resilient, but the scale of this disaster is beyond anything they could have prepared for. With Beryl behind them the residents of Carriacou continue to have smiles on their faces and grateful to be alive despite the devastation they are surrounded by. Friendly, happy, helpful; all words that anyone would associate with Kayaks. The island may be small but they have a big reputation for their hospitality and welcoming attitude towards new comers.

Why is Carriacou important to us?

Our maternal heritage originates from Carriacou, with our Grandmother Fathie John, who grew up and was raised on the island. I am fortunate enough to have been able to learn about and experience Carriacou my mother Venicia, who built property in BelleVue South. I was lucky enough to celebrate my sister’s wedding less than 2 months ago on MT Pleasant beach; and now after the events of hurricane Beryl the island has been left almost unrecognisable. Family members, friends, shop owners, teachers and doctors have all lost their homes and is most cases basic means of survival. To us these titles come along with an image of someone we know or have grown up visiting our whole lives.

What is the current situation?

As we speak residents of Carriacou are looking for loved ones, checking on the state of their homes, scavenging for whatever remains of their possessions and livelihoods. The island is currently without electricity and all communication towers are down. Limited amounts of aid and supplies are being ferried over from Grenada and other less affected neighbouring countries. The country needs all the help and assistance they can get.

What are we trying to achieve?

With all the loss, worry, stress and panic that Beryl has brought, we refuse to let the negative overshadow our spirits. The most useful thing we can do is use our time and skills to help our community as much as we can. We will be liaising with a school and shelter on the island to help establish what resources are specifically require and the best ways to distribute the resources. We are in the process of establishing a extensive list of items to be brought, collected and sent over.

What will your donation go towards?

The funds raised will go towards the following;

• A 20ft shipping container

• Shipping fees

• A storage facility for resources and donations

• Supplies including:

o Medical

o Personal Hygiene

o Cleaning

o Clothing

o Food

o Building equipment

How You Can Help?

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Donate: Click the "Donate Now" button and give what you can to support our cause.

• Share: Spread the word about our campaign by sharing this page with your friends, family, and social networks.

We will be working alongside Kerwin Noel principle of Mt Pleasant School, Alicia Dorian Noel from Dori’s Kitchen and Shelton Stafford KAS Wholesale, Exploring with Kosie.