Stayner man sends essential supplies home to Jamaica

After Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica, Desmond Herron began ramping up his efforts to send supplies back home.

Herron, a Stayner based landscaper, regularly sends supplies back home to his wife and family but after the Category 5 hurricane devastated Jamaica and cut off supplies to islanders, Herron’s clients began asking what they could do to help.

He was encouraged to set up a Go Fund Me page where people could contribute funds to help Herron purchase specific items, which he ships home in crates and barrels for distribution in his home community.

“I am trying to do more but I can’t do it by myself,” said Herron. “I need help.”

His wife and family are in Seaforth, in St. Thomas Parish, where mercifully, their house is in tact. The supplies are being distributed there and in small communities in Portland Parish, both parishes being in Jamaica’s east end. Herron said residents in the area have been reaching out to his wife for help because they are not able to get the basic supplies they need.

One crate has already been shipped and Herron said he will continue to send goods as resources allow.

To stretch every dollar, Herron shops for non-perishable food items at the dollar store, or by getting discounted products at grocery stores. His shopping list includes things like rice, flower, sugar, tinned meats like tuna, corned beef, and sardines.

Herron is close to his fundraising goal of $5,000 but will keep the campaign going as long as needed.

To donate, search ‘For hurricane damage in Jamaica on gofundme.com or e-transfer herronslandscaping563@ gmail.com.