The Donna Marie Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded as a social intervention initiative for newly migrated, displaced, and deported women and their families. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive education, support, and advocacy—empowering women to rebuild their lives with dignity, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of women experience displacement or are deported, with many returning to Jamaica from countries around the world. Tragically, far too many of them face these challenges without the proper support systems or legal knowledge, increasing their risk of homelessness, abuse, and long-term instability. These hardships extend beyond the individuals themselves, deeply affecting their children, partners, and broader communities.
At the heart of our work is a mission to assist deported women and their families by equipping them with opportunities to thrive—not just survive. Through education and targeted support, we guide women through the complexities of the legal system to help prevent inadvertent violations of immigration laws. Our goal is to break the cycle of marginalization and empower our clients with the tools and confidence needed to reclaim their lives.
Through the Deportation Mitigation Fund, we develop and deliver programs that:
• Offer practical legal education and resources
• Promote mental health and emotional well-being
• Support professional development and self-sufficiency
• Foster safe and inclusive spaces for healing and growth
We believe in the strength and potential of every woman. At the Donna Marie Foundation, we are building a community of care, advocacy, and empowerment—so that no woman has to face the challenges of displacement or deportation alone.
In 1997 - Donna Marie Belnavis was deported from the United States to Kingston, Jamaica, alongside several other women. Upon arrival, she was approached by a stranger offering drugs under the guise of "help." This moment highlighted the urgent need for structured support. Donna and the women with her became the first unofficial clients of what would later become the Donna Marie Foundation— created to provide guidance, protection, and hope to
In 1998, our Founder and CEO, Isha, took her first trip to Jamaica to support her sister Donna and the women she had met. This visit —marked by compassion, care packages, and connection—planted the seed for what would become the Donna Marie Foundation.
In 1999, Isha returned to Kingston with more clothing, food, and toiletries for the women in need. During this time, Donna faced the loss of her father. Isha provided vital support, helping Donna reunite with her four children—further deepening the foundation's commitment to restoring lives and families
In 2000, Isha transformed her salon into a one bedroom efficiency, creating a safe and stable living space for Donna. This act of compassion marked another step in building a foundation rooted in care, dignity, and support.
2000–2006 – Building Support Networks Over several visits to Kingston, Isha worked to establish a business and resource center for deported women. During this time, she helped Donna find employment and access medical care for her diabetes
2006 – A Heartbreaking Loss In 2006, Donna was diagnosed with renal failure. Isha helped raise funds for her dialysis treatment, but tragically, Donna passed away after her first session at Kingston Public Hospital.
2006–2009 – A Pause in the Vision Devastated by Donna’s passing, Isha temporarily stepped away from her dream of launching the Donna Marie Foundation
2009 – A New Beginning Returning to Jamaica for the first time since Donna’s passing. This emotional journey marked the rebirth of the Donna Marie Foundation, renewing the vision to honor Donna’s legacy by supporting displaced and deported women.
2009–2018 – Expanding Support Across Borders During this time, the DMF provided vital assistance to families in both the U.S. and Jamaica—offering food, clothing, and essential resources to those in need, further extending the foundation’s impact and reach.
2016 – First Jerk & Juice Fundraiser The inaugural Jerk & Juice event was held to support a local teenager, marking the beginning of DMF’s community-focused fundraising efforts
2019 – DMF LLC Established DMF LLC was officially formed. In February, the first annual Talent for Charity fundraiser was hosted, raising awareness and support for DMF’s mission
2020 – Boutique Launch & Community Event The Donna Marie Fashion Boutique opened its doors in Papine Arcade, St. Andrew, Jamaica. That same year, the Seafood Monday fundraiser was introduced to support DMF initiatives.
2021 – Official 501(c)(3) Status DMF was formally recognized as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. The year also featured the 3rd annual Jerk & Juice.
2023 – Shop & Sip Fundraiser Debuts The first annual Shop & Sip fundraiser offered a unique blend of fashion, community, and philanthropy.
2024 – Giving Back in a Big Way DMF hosted its first annual Turkey Giveaway, Toy Drive, and Free Thanksgiving Dinner, expanding its reach and impact during the holiday season.
”My goal is to provide individuals with the support system and resources my sister never received. Assisting women and their families who have migrated to the United States in becoming self-sufficient citizens is a noble goal that contributes to the country's diversity and prosperity. There are ways to support newcomers, including providing access to education, job training, language classes & community resources to help them integrate successfully into society. By establishing a robust support system, we can significantly increase their chances of success and decrease the number of deportations, particularly for vulnerable groups like women.
” Isha Campbell (Founder)
