For comedian Dufton “Duffy” Shepherd, shocked didn’t adequately describe the devastation he witnessed during visits to western Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa.

Usually, Shepherd exudes cheerfulness, but the damage left by the Category 5 storm left him heartbroken.

But the comedian didn’t stay in that broken place for long. In fact, using his next Slightly Unhinged comedy show as a tool, Shepherd has decided to bring smiles to the faces of his fellow Jamaicans in a way that transcends the stage.

“I was hoping we wouldn’t get hit by Hurricane Melissa because I knew it would be bad, but I honestly didn’t expect it to be this bad,” he told the Jamaica Observer. “I couldn’t believe a my Jamaica this… The devastation was unreal, and so immediately, my bredren, Alrice Palmer (managing director at Nutriqual Distributors), and I decided we would help with relief efforts… [I]n two days we raised enough resources to make our first trip earlier this month.”

The business of laughter is his usual playground, but Shepherd said he was moved to tears many times during his trip.

“If you don’t ‘hold it like a G’ you will start bawl! Not cry, bawl! Sincere efforts were met with sincere gratitude, and that was a powerful concoction of emotions that touched the very soul. I wanted to do more, and so my November 30 staging of Slightly Unhinged will be dedicated to our ongoing relief efforts,” he said. “We all need to use what we have been blessed with to help those in need, and so I am committing the proceeds and resources raised at this show to those affected by the hurricane.”

The show, which is scheduled for 22 Jerk on Barbican Road, will feature sets from Owen “Blakka” Ellis and Christopher “Johnny” Daley. There will also be performances from Alaine, Yaksta, T.O.K., and Rockaz Elements with additional entertainment from Dance Xpressionz, DJ Bell, and DJ Powah.

As an added feature, patrons are welcome to drop off items for donation at the venue.

Shepherd’s associate and business partner, Alrice Palmer, “Every time we distribute relief packages or help reconnect families with essential services it reinforces how interconnected we are as Jamaicans. Contributing, even in small ways, has been one of the most meaningful experiences,” he said. “You realise that something as simple as clean water, a warm meal, or a word of encouragement can make a world of difference for someone who has lost everything. Their resilience and gratitude strengthen my resolve to keep doing all I can. It reminds me that hope is powerful, especially when it’s shared.

“If this project helps even one community feel less isolated and more empowered to rebuild, then the purpose would be achieved,” Palmer continued.