Dear Friends, Family, and Colleagues:

I am heartbroken by what’s happened and feel compelled to act.

My wonderful son-in-law is deeply proud of his Jamaican heritage. He, his mother, and other family members here in the United States are hard-working American Citizens who have always supported their loved ones in St. Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica. Last December, he and my daughter took my two teenage granddaughters “home” to meet their relatives—including their remarkable great-grandfather, now more than 100 years old. It was a beautiful homecoming filled with love and connection.

Now that same family home has been torn apart by Hurricane Melissa. Powerful winds ripped off a section of the roof, destroying everything inside. Torrential rains drenched what remained. They are now confined to a small corner of the house while the rest stands open to the elements—with no electricity and only limited cell service.

Hurricane Melissa is the most POWERFUL storm to ever hit Jamaica, and the eye of the storm blew straight through St. Elizabeth Parish.

To make matters worse, roads leading to their village are still blocked or washed out, cutting them off from basic supplies and repair crews.

I’m starting this GoFundMe to get emergency help directly to the family—funds will go toward repairing the roof, replacing essential household items, and restoring safety and dignity to their lives.

Our goal is simply to get this family dry, safe, and secure again. Every dollar helps rebuild their home and restore power.

Every dollar brings them closer to stability. Every act of kindness matters. Please give what you can and share this campaign widely so help can reach them quickly. All Funds Will Be Used For The Restoration Of This Home.

With Deep Gratitude,

Carole Copeland Thomas

Greater Boston USA