A local nonprofit organization is doing its part in providing relief to the people of Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa tore through the country last month.
Sephlin Foundation, based out of Rexburg, has set up a fundraiser for the people of Jamaica to provide support and relief to those affected.
Sephlin Hepworth, the founder, president and executive director of Sephlin Foundation, is from Jamaica and understands the hardships the people of the country are enduring after the hurricane.
“I went through a hurricane back in 1988—Hurricane Gilbert—and it was horrible,” Hepworth said. “And I heard this one was even worse.”
Understanding the trials the Jamaican people are facing, Hepworth decided she wanted to do everything in her power to help, so she started a fundraiser.
“Everyone that I spoke with and talked to thought it was a great idea,” she said. “I got flyers up and sent out notices to all of my friends and businesspeople and let them know that Sephlin Foundation is going to do this fundraiser to help the people in Jamaica.”
But fundraising isn’t new for Hepworth. This will be the foundation’s second fundraiser for Jamaican relief.
“This is my second year doing a fundraiser, which is a blanket fundraiser,” Hepworth said. “And I specify that a portion of it, which is about half, is going to go to the people of Jamaica.”
People are encouraged to buy customized blankets to help provide aid to Jamaicans affected by Hurricane Melissa. A variety of different colors and sizes are available to choose from.
Sephlin Foundation is also accepting other donations, such as cash, non-perishable food, clothing and toiletries.
“The more we can do to help the people of Jamaica would be wonderful,” Hepworth said. “It’s not a one-time help, but a continuous help that they will need.”
To learn more about Sephlin Foundation and donate, you can head over to its website.