Hello everyone,

My name is Alexia Shepherd, and I’m a proud Jamaican living in Burnaby, Canada, along with my husband and our two children. On Tuesday, October 28th, our beloved Jamaica was struck by Hurricane Melissa, a devastating Category 5 storm that tore through the island, leaving behind unimaginable destruction.

Much of the country has been destroyed — homes, livelihoods, and entire communities washed away. The death toll continues to rise and now stands at 19, with many still missing. My heart aches for everyone back home who has lost so much in this tragedy.

We have been able to account for almost all of our family members, for which we are deeply grateful. However, we are still anxiously praying for the safety of my father-in-law, from whom we have not heard since the hurricane hit. Please keep him and everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers.

Several members of our family have been displaced, their homes wrecked. They are now taking refuge with other relatives who are also struggling to meet even the most basic needs. Communities across Jamaica are expected to be without electricity and clean water for weeks, possibly months. We’ve provided as much support as we can from our own pockets, but it’s simply not enough to meet the overwhelming needs right now.

The immediate needs are critical and this list is not exhaustive:

Food and clean water

Blankets and bed linens

Baby clothing, diapers, and formula

Adult and children’s clothing and shoes

Feminine hygiene products and sanitizers

Water storage equipment and tarpaulins

Batteries and lighting equipment such as flashlights

Material to help rebuild homes that were destroyed

All proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly to Jamaica, where they will be distributed among my family, friends and the wider community to help them rebuild their lives and meet their urgent needs.

Your kindness, prayers, and generosity mean more than words can express. If you’re able, please consider giving — every contribution, no matter the size, brings hope to families in despair and helps us move one step closer to recovery. Please also considering sharing this fundraiser with your loved ones.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for standing with Jamaica during this heartbreaking time. Together, we can help our island recover stronger than before.

PS. I will post updates of all items that are purchased and delivered.

With love and gratitude,

Alexia Shepherd

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP1jPCefbIA