KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national recovery initiative for Hurricane Melissa devastation has received an extraordinary financial infusion, with the recently concluded “I Love Jamaica” Telethon generating over $65 million in donations and pledges. The monumental fundraising achievement was confirmed by Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange.
The virtual benefit concert, broadcast worldwide on Sunday through both traditional media and digital platforms, featured performances by approximately 30 of Jamaica’s most celebrated musical talents spanning reggae, dancehall, and gospel genres. This cross-genre collaboration created a powerful demonstration of cultural solidarity.
Minister Grange disclosed that $45.76 million has already been secured in the official Support Jamaica account, with an additional $19.97 million in committed pledges scheduled for collection in the coming days. The minister expressed profound appreciation for the widespread support from both local and international contributors.
“Our heartfelt gratitude extends to every individual donor across the island and diaspora, corporate Jamaica, and global supporters standing with our communities most severely affected by this catastrophic hurricane,” Minister Grange stated during her address.
The production represented a collaborative endeavor between Jamaica’s entertainment industry and government ministries. Minister Grange specifically acknowledged the extraordinary contributions from performing artists, sports personalities, media broadcasters, and corporate sponsors including Red Stripe and Digicel.
Corporate partners emphasized the telethon’s significance in showcasing national resilience. Sean Wallace, Red Stripe’s Head of Commerce, noted the event highlighted the unwavering strength of Jamaican unity, reaffirming his company’s commitment to long-term community recovery efforts.
Nicholette McFarlane, Digicel’s Head of Marketing, characterized participation as both an honor and privilege, emphasizing the powerful display of global Jamaican solidarity.
The national relief program continues to accept public contributions through official portals at supportjamaica.gov.jm and japromise.org. Additionally, mobile donations are being processed via text messaging system: Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5501 ($150 donation), 876-444-5502 ($1,000 donation), or 876-444-5503 ($5,000 donation).
This telethon marks the initial phase of the broader “I Love Jamaica” fundraising campaign, with planned physical benefit concerts scheduled in international cities with significant Jamaican populations including London, New York, and Miami.