South Florida’s Jamaican community and supporters are mobilizing for a major humanitarian effort this weekend as prominent gospel artists prepare for the ‘One Love Jamaica Rebuild’ benefit concert. Scheduled for Saturday at The Faith Centre in Sunrise, the event aims to generate crucial funding for recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on the Caribbean nation.
The concert represents a collaborative initiative between humanitarian organization Dare to Care and the Consul General of Jamaica, orchestrated to address the estimated $7 billion in damages inflicted by the late October storm. Among the featured performers are gospel luminaries including Papa San, Carlene Davis, Marion Hall, Kevin Downswell, and Sharon Wiles.
Tyrone Thompson, professionally known as Papa San, expressed profound commitment to the cause, stating: “Our hearts are in a place where we are just ready and willing to help Jamaica. I am so glad to participate and be a part of that.” The artist emphasized the transparent allocation of funds, noting that every cent raised would be directed toward relief efforts rather than performer compensation.
Organizers have established an ambitious target of $250,000 through various fundraising mechanisms including merchandise sales, voluntary donations, and offerings. Additionally, the event will serve as a collection point for essential relief supplies, with detailed item requirements available on the official registration portal at Onelovejamaicarebuild.org.
Despite offering free admission, the event requires advance registration to manage attendance. Consul General of Jamaica to the Southern United States Oliver Mair and Lauderhill Mayor Denise Grant are among the key figures supporting the initiative.
Papa San appealed to collective responsibility, invoking the Jamaican proverb “one one coco full basket” to illustrate how individual contributions accumulate into meaningful support. The artist confirmed that beyond financial donations, organizers are coordinating container shipments of food and necessary supplies to ensure comprehensive assistance reaches affected communities.