Jay Slater’s family taps into £36k fund to back rescue efforts as search enters day 11
Family Withdraws Funds to Support Search
Jay Slater’s mum, Debbie Duncan, has revealed the family is working with GoFundMe to access some of the £36,400 raised since the 19-year-old went missing in Tenerife.
Posting on the “Get Jay Slater Home” fundraiser page, Debbie said the cash will support the mountain rescue teams tirelessly combing the rugged terrain. It will also cover accommodation and food for the family while they remain on the island.
Tight-Knit Family Sticks Together in Crisis
Debbie, who is currently in Tenerife alongside Jay’s father and brother, confirmed part of the funds will fly in more relatives to offer crucial emotional support.
“We are not losing hope that we will find Jay and return home together. These funds are being safely held and will be used to support the search teams, cover our living expenses here, and bring family over so we can support each other during these dark times,” she wrote.
She also thanked donors and those sending kind messages, saying, “This means the world to us.”
Search Intensifies Amid Online Bullies
Rescuers continue to focus efforts by helicopter and on foot around a key area in Tenerife. Specialist search dogs have also been brought in for the hunt.
Meanwhile, Jay’s family and friends have faced cruel conspiracy theories online, prompting his employer, PH Build Group, to slam those sending “cruel” emails and posting hurtful speculation.
“People are trying to ruin lives and businesses while sitting behind a screen looking for attention. Jay’s family shouldn’t have to endure this,” the company said.
Boy Lost in Tenerife Mountains After Missed Bus
Apprentice bricklayer Jay was holidaying with friends after the NRG music festival when he set off on foot from Masca on June 16. After missing a bus, he told a friend at 8.30am the next day he was lost, low on water, and had only 1% phone battery.
The last person to see Jay was local resident Ofelia Medina Hernandez, who spoke with him on June 17 and saw him walking quickly along the mountain path.
The ongoing search and fundraisers show the family’s fierce determination to bring Jay safely home.
