Help Claudia Rebuild Her Home After Hurricane Melissa

Life can change in a single night.

Just a few weeks ago, Hurricane Melissa tore through rural St. Mary, Jamaica, devastating families who were already living with limited resources. Among the hardest hit was Claudia Nugent, a hardworking mother, grandmother, and caregiver whose home was severely damaged during the storm.

My name is Tanhói Moreno. I was born and raised in Jamaica, and I now live in Georgia, USA. My mother-in-law, Annette Fitzgerald, lives the US as well, but her mother, who is now retired, lives in Tower Isle, St. Ann. Claudia works as her helper and has been a steady, supportive presence in their household for years.

When Hurricane Melissa hit, Claudia’s home in Mango Valley, St. Mary, was severely destroyed. Walls collapsed. Sections of the roof blew away. Almost all personal belongings were ruined. Claudia and her family gathered what they could and did their best to put the house back together so they would have shelter. Even after their efforts, the structure is still in serious disrepair. It is standing but not safe or truly livable, especially for a family caring for a newborn and an adult son with mental illness.

Claudia lives with six family members:

a 3-month-old baby

an 18-year-old

a 15-year-old

a 27-year-old

her 37-year-old son who is mentally ill and depends on her

and herself

They lost their mattress, their stove, most of their clothing, and many household basics. Conditions are extremely difficult.

Claudia is someone who has always given quietly and without complaint. She rarely asks for help. This time, she truly needs support.

We are hoping to raise USD $5,000 to help her and her family rebuild their lives. All funds will be sent directly to my mother-in-law, Annette Fitzgerald. She will ensure the money is used exactly as stated below.

How the funds will be spent:

Replace the mattress so the family can sleep safely

Purchase a small stove so they can cook proper meals

Provide clothing and shoes for all six family members

Replace baby essentials, including diapers, wipes, and clothing

Purchase basic household necessities such as bedding, utensils, and toiletries

Provide food assistance during their recovery period

Support critical repairs to the home, including securing walls and fixing roofing issues

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a life-changing difference. In Jamaica’s rural communities, even a little goes a very long way.

If you cannot donate, please help by sharing this campaign. Thank you for helping Claudia rebuild with dignity and hope.