Struggling St Elizabeth family gets help

After their story was published in THE STAR on Monday, the Southfield, St Elizabeth, resident Shakera McKenzie and her family, who are struggling to live, have been receiving an outpour of support locally and from different parts of the world.

STAR readers have been contacting the family and our offices in Canada, United States and the United Kingdom to assist with necessities and financial support.

Locally, Food For The Poor, Ibero Star Hotel, Police Youth clubs, medical doctors, private businesses, and ordinary Jamaicans have made contact with our newsroom pledging to assist the worthy cause, as they say the story touched their hearts.

The grandmother for the teen, Carmen Copeland, told THE STAR yesterday that, "I am thankful for the help they are getting. Everybody who call I tell them thanks in advance. The Food For the Poor came here today (yesterday), Jamaica National bank also and they are about to set up an account. The Child Development Agency also visited. Some white people also came and brought clothes, toothbrushes and toys."

further setback

At 18 years old, Shakera McKenzie says she is struggling with three children and desperately needs assistance, and, more importantly, meaningful advice to save herself from further setback.

Her impoverished state has reached a crisis and her children, ages five years, three years and three months, and her siblings, who also live with her, need a clearer outlook on life to prevent them from making mistakes similar to hers.

Persons wishing to assist the family are encouraged to drop off contributions at 7 North Street c/o Shakera McKenzie or contact her family at 887-8537, 466-6682 or 893-5268.