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Search & Rescue

Florida Woman Heads To Jamaica To Search For Missing Father After Hurricane Melissa

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A Florida woman is headed to Jamaica to begin the painful search for her 85-year-old father after Hurricane Melissa hit the region.

Her dad has been missing for over a week.

"I just feel empty. Hollow. Like just a shell," Kimali Stephen told CBS affiliate WFOR. "Until I can put my eyes on my dad — at least hear his voice."

Albert Stephen is unaccounted for after Hurricane Melissa hit the country. He had retired to the Caribbean nation to enjoy his twilight years after the death of Kimali's mom. At least 32 people died during the storm. Kimali hasn't heard from him since before the hurricane hit. Dad and daughter share a strong bond despite the long distance. That's why Kimali is so concerned about him.

"My dad and I are very close," Kimali told WFOR. "You know, every couple of days we talk normally. And this? I cannot sleep."

Missing in Jamaica

Things have been quite dire in Jamaica after the storm. In one town, the hurricane destroyed 90% of the homes in the area. "We're all on the same mission. Trying to reach our families. We're there to give and try to rebuild. Make the community stronger and bring it back," said Stephen.
She's not the only one searching for missing relatives. Several others are also making the trip to Jamaica to search for their missing relatives as well. They're also taking supplies to the area to help those that have been affected by Hurricane Melissa.

After posting on social media about her missing dad, Kimali heard from others searching for loved ones. According to WFOR, the woman and fellow Jamaicans are planning a trip to the island to locate their missing relatives. They also plan on taking much-needed supplies to locals. "You know some people they don't have water. They don't have food. The houses are flat," said Stephen.

World Central Kitchen has also partnered with local companies to help people in Jamaica as well.

"WCK has already mobilized, pre-deploying teams to assist in recovery efforts," one team member in Jamaica said. "We're coordinating with local restaurant partners to ensure they can serve meals once the hurricane passes."