I have delayed making this request for as long as I could in hopes that things would get better. I was wrong. And for that, I apologize for not asking for help sooner.

Jamaica has experienced a catastrophic weather event that destroyed a significant portion of the island. Families in rural areas are heavily impacted and need immediate help. These families in the past would sacrifice and help others in their time of need, but now have found themself in a place where they cannot help themselves. They have lost everything except their lives. My uncle Val who lives in Jamaica is trying to help. They are in dire need for basic supplies so they can get back to being able to help themselves, then in turn, help others.

My name is Christopher Lewis, and I was born and raised in Spanish Town, Jamaica. I am currently residing in Jacksonville Florida, and I keep in touch with my family still living in Jamaica. There are multiple families in the hills of St Ann who will need all the help they can get. They are people who have supported my family members in the past, and they are in need of help. Since they are far away from the help that is available in the metropolitan areas, it is a huge challenge to get what they need. I intend to send all that is raised to my uncle Valentine Cameron, who will be able to directly support those families impacted. These families are in need of food, clothes, medical supplies, and building supplies to repair what is left of their homes. They are currently living in cramped and inhospitable conditions.

So I am asking for your help. Any amount you can comfortably spare will be greatly appreciated. I know times are hard right now, so please don’t be discouraged if you cannot send financial help. I only ask that you share this link to allow someone else the opportunity to be as generous as these families in Jamaica have been in the past.

The reason financial aid is preferred is because shipping relief to those rural areas is extremely difficult right now. It is likely that those items will remain in the ports for extended periods. Providing funds to allow families to purchase available supplies will significantly reduce the time it will take to get back on their feet. Hurricane Melissa was extraordinarily devastating, and it will take a significant amount of effort to recover.

Thank you for your generosity, especially if that kindness is to share this request with your friends.