Ties That Cross the Water

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, my heart has been heavy watching the images coming out of Jamaica; homes torn apart, families displaced, entire communities working together to rebuild. It’s a scene many of us in Central Florida know all too well. We’ve felt the uncertainty of hurricane season, the long nights without power, and the collective sigh of relief when neighbors show up with helping hands.

Disasters have a way of reminding us that home isn’t just a roof over our heads, it’s the people, the culture, and the memories that hold us together.

Central Florida and Jamaica share more than sunshine and palm trees. Our communities are intertwined through family, music, food, and faith. Many Jamaicans have made Central Florida their home, building businesses, raising families, and investing in neighborhoods that thrive because of their energy and warmth.

When tragedy strikes “back home,” the ripple is felt here, too. You’ll see it in local churches organizing drives, restaurants donating proceeds, and families sending what they can to loved ones abroad. It’s a powerful reflection of what home truly means: connection without borders.

The Heart of Real Estate Is Belonging

In real estate, we often talk about property value, appreciation, and investment but moments like this bring us back to the why. People don’t just buy houses; they build legacies. The same spirit that drives us to create safe, beautiful spaces in Central Florida is the same one driving communities in Jamaica to rebuild stronger, together.

As we send support and prayers across the sea, we’re also reminded to care for our own communities, to check on neighbors, prepare for storms, and value the shared resilience that defines life.

How You Can Help

If you’d like to support relief efforts in Jamaica:

• Donate to supportjamaica.gov.jm or The Jamaica Red Cross.
• Share verified links from trusted organizations.
• Support local Caribbean-owned businesses contributing to relief efforts.

Every gesture big or small helps rebuild hope.

‍

Legacy Loop celebrates the places and people that make the Sunshine State shine and honors the ties that keep our communities connected across the water. Stay in the loop for more stories that reflect what home truly means.

‍