It took a lot for me to decide to create this support page because I'm not use to doing this, but given the sheer magnitude of Melissa's impact, I realize that we can't do this alone and therefore need as much financial help as possible.
My parents, brothers, cousins, sister-in-law, young nieces and nephews, live in the rural parts Montego Bay, St James and Westmoreland, some of the most severly impacted parishes in Jamaica that were directly in the path of this monster hurricane, and their homes have had damages, some more extensive than others.
One of my neices had to literally run out of their home with her two young daughters because it began to fall apart during the storm.There was a little boy running with them, who was heart-breakingly airborne and landed several feet away in some trees. Sadly, his lifeless body was discovered by members of the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) following the hurricane. It's a miracle my neices are still here.
A portion of my sister's-in-law roof was torn off and she had no idea where it landed. And another neice reported that one of their close neighbors died when his trailer home capsized. His body was yet to be retrieved as at last update
One of my cousins suffered damage to her home and a small shop she operates. And my brother suffered damage to his home and also a small commercial building that our uncle left behind for him. There's a lot more but we are so grateful to God for sparing their lives.
Without immediate repairs and rehabilitation, they're at risk of health issues from mold, lack of shelter, and the ongoing rainy season.
Insurance in Jamaica often falls short for natural disasters like this, and government aid is being stretched and can't cover everything for everyone.
That's why I've started this Spotfund page. Every dollar raised will go directly toward:
Home Repairs: Rebuilding roofs, walls, and foundations to make their homes safe and livable again.
Essential Supplies: Food, clean water, clothing, and hygiene items to meet immediate needs.
Medical and Emotional Support: Any necessary check-ups for injuries or stress-related issues, especially for the kids and elderly (my parents are in their 70s and 80s respectively).
Long-Term Recovery: Helping them replace lost belongings and get back on their feet.
Our goal is $25,000, but even small donations add up to make a huge difference. If you can't donate, sharing this campaign with your network through social media etc, would mean the world to us—it could reach someone who can help
From the depths of our gratitude, thank you for reading our story and considering supporting us. In Jamaica, we say "one love," and right now, your love and generosity could rebuild our family's future.
With hope and appreciation,
Michael Roache
On behalf of our Jamaican family
#HurricaneMelissaRelief #HelpJamaica #FamilyInNeed
