On October 28, Melissa, a category five hurricane, swept through the island of Jamaica destroying everything in its path. It was nothing that Jamaicans in modern times have ever experienced, and the aftermath is even more horrendous. Almost a week later, in most places there is neither drinking water nor electricity; just waist-high muddy water occupying houses, many with no roofs, and furniture and kitchen appliances completely washed away or destroyed. Vehicles that were not washed away are often still submerged in a sea of muddy water. Whole towns have been destroyed. Foreign help has been slow to arrive. We are so saddened by the stories and pictures gradually coming out of Jamaica as some cellular services become available.

Two families who we know of are now destitute. Our friend Conroy Lee and his mom barely escaped from their home, having to make it through waist-high, fast-flowing, muddy waters crashing into it. His taxi cab is no more. And our other friend Melissa Williams, sister of Primrose’s maid of honor at our wedding, has completely lost her small restaurant - her little building was flattened. Each of their livelihoods has completely disappeared.

These are two hardworking individuals who we’d like to help get back on their feet, as so many of their family members are reliant on them. Help us to help them in whatever way you can.

All funds collected will be distributed to the two families via Western Union.

Primrose & Austin