Devastation: Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful storm ever to hit Jamaica, has claimed several lives and taken the roofs of at least 80% of the island’s buildings
Two sisters from South Croydon have set themselves a challenging goal of walking 22 kilometres – more than 13 miles – to try to raise thousands of pounds to help those affected in Jamaica by the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
The Category 5 storm – one of the most powerful hurricanes ever measured in the region – is thought to have killed at least five people.
Almost 48 hours after the storm hit, people remain stranded on roofs and without power.
Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness described the “total devastation” across the island, saying that 80 to 90% of roofs had been damaged, along with hospitals, libraries, police stations, port houses and other urban infrastructure destroyed.
The dire news has prompted two Croydon children of Jamaican heritage to restart something called Project 22 – a charity fund-raiser which has been used in the past to help feed homeless people in the town centre and last year to raise thousands of pounds for hurricane relief the last time that Jamaica suffered from serious storm damage.
Naomi Townsend, now aged nine, has been undertaking fund-raising efforts since she was six. Her hurricane relief run last year saw her recognised by a message from Jamaica’s High Commissioner to London.
This year, Naomi will be joined in her Project 22 efforts by her six-year-old sister, Emily.
This dynamic duo have set themselves a goal to raise £3,000:
- £2,200 will go directly to the Manchester Chapter of the Jamaica Red Cross to support their on-the-ground relief work
- The remaining funds will be used to purchase food and essentials in London, which the girls will pack into at least two barrels and ship to Manchester parish
“Lots of families are still without food, water, power or safe shelter,” said Naomi Townesend.
Dynamic duo: Naomi (left) and Emily Townsend will be walking 13 miles to raise money for hurricane relief
“Emily and I want to walk 22k so their worries can be a lot less.”
Naomi Townsend says she is passionate about standing with Jamaica in this time of crisis. And Emily has no intention of being left out: “I may be six, but I’m stepping up,” she said.
The sisters will be posting updates and receipts for the Red Cross donation, the food purchases and the shipping costs, so supporters can see exactly how every pound is spent.
And the sisters are hoping that their long walk will inspire others to donate, share their story, and cheer them on as they take one step at a time for Jamaica.
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just donated to your good cause well done girls xx