In response to the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, Fontana Pharmacy, in collaboration with the Fontana Foundation and Amber FundMe, has initiated a $10 million fundraising campaign. This effort aims to support relief and recovery operations for affected Jamaicans both locally and within the diaspora. Amber FundMe, the crowdfunding platform behind the government’s official donation site, supportjamaica.gov.jm, is facilitating the campaign, which was activated shortly after the hurricane struck. Fontana Pharmacy has pledged to match every dollar donated, up to $5 million, to achieve the total fundraising goal. The Fontana Foundation, a registered charity, has already distributed over 800 care packages containing essential items such as food, water, personal care products, and clothing to families in urgent need. The relief efforts have primarily targeted the severely impacted communities of St James and Westmoreland. Anne Chang, CEO of Fontana Pharmacy, emphasized the organization’s unique ability to deliver aid swiftly and effectively, given its presence in hard-hit areas like Montego Bay and Savanna-la-Mar. Chang also highlighted the importance of collective action, stating, ‘Together, we can help communities recover and rebuild stronger. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference.’ Donations can be made through the Amber FundMe campaign page: amberfundme.com/campaign/the-fontana-foundation-hurricane-melissa-relief-fund.
标签： Jamaica
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Lutan Fyah’s Only Jah Knows get video
Renowned reggae artist Lutan Fyah has unveiled the official music video for his spiritually profound single, ‘Only Jah Knows,’ on November 3, 2025. The release stands as a heartfelt homage to the Jamaican communities ravaged by Hurricane Melissa, blending the artist’s signature conscious lyricism with soulful melodies. Originally featured on the ‘Reggae Vibes’ rhythm by Reggae Vibes Music, the track has resonated deeply with audiences for its timeless exploration of life’s challenges and the unwavering belief that only the Almighty comprehends one’s path. The newly launched video amplifies this message by incorporating real footage of the hurricane’s aftermath, juxtaposing scenes of devastation with moments of recovery. Lutan Fyah’s emotive performance, set against this backdrop, transforms the video into a poignant testament to compassion and resilience. By honoring the indomitable spirit of his people, the artist underscores reggae’s enduring role as a beacon of hope during adversity. The ‘Only Jah Knows’ video is now available for streaming on Lutan Fyah’s official YouTube channel, encouraging viewers to reflect, remember, and draw strength from the belief that all things are guided by Jah.
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‘Just like us in ’97’: Former Reggae Boyz inspire Jamaicans ahead of World Cup decider
As Jamaica’s national football team, the Reggae Boyz, prepare for their decisive World Cup qualifier against Curaçao, the nation stands on the brink of history. A victory would mark Jamaica’s first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1998, reigniting memories of their historic qualification nearly three decades ago. Deon Burton, a key figure in that 1997 campaign, expressed confidence in the current squad, drawing parallels to the pressure and pride of his own era. Burton, who scored four goals in five matches during the 1997 qualifiers, was named Jamaica’s Sportsman of the Year and remains a symbol of the nation’s footballing legacy.
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Haitian gangs getting rich off murky market for baby eels
In Haiti, criminal gangs are capitalizing on a highly profitable trade in baby eels, locally known as ‘Zangi,’ which are harvested from the nation’s rivers and estuaries and exported abroad for thousands of dollars. These glass eels, which drift annually from the Sargasso Sea to Haiti’s coastal waters, are in high demand, particularly in Asia, where they are considered a delicacy. This trade is enriching the very gangs that have plunged Haiti into chaos, according to experts.
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All set Gin ‘N’ Juice 31
The iconic party Gin ‘N’ Juice is set to make a grand comeback on December 6, celebrating its 31st anniversary with a special White Christmas Edition. Hosted at Devon House in St Andrew, the event promises to transport attendees to the golden era of nightlife, blending nostalgia with festive cheer. The theme draws inspiration from the enchanting concept of a snowy winter, creating a unique tropical twist on the holiday season. Co-promoter Gregg Smith shared insights into the event’s vision, emphasizing its goal to evoke the serene beauty of snow while offering a vibrant escape for attendees. The celebration will feature musical performances by renowned DJs Delano from Renaissance, Timmy from HMV, and Kurt Riley, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Beyond entertainment, the event also serves as a sanctuary for volunteers who have been tirelessly supporting Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, providing them with a well-deserved break. With meticulous preparations underway, Gin ‘N’ Juice aims to deliver a night of joy, relaxation, and community spirit.
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Digicel says vandalism on Catherine Hall site delays restoration work
Digicel, a leading communications company, has disclosed that critical batteries were stolen from one of its network sites in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, on Monday, November 17. The incident occurred just days after the site had been repaired as part of ongoing efforts to restore services following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
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WATCH: Curacao Football Federation president says his team is on the verge of ‘history’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Curaçao Football Federation is on the brink of making history as they prepare for a pivotal World Cup qualifying match against Jamaica at the National Stadium on Tuesday evening. The clash, scheduled for 8:00 pm, will determine which team secures an automatic spot in next year’s World Cup.
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Midfield magic missing
Jamaica’s 1-1 draw against Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) in Port of Spain on Thursday kept their FIFA World Cup aspirations alive but highlighted persistent issues in their midfield-to-attack transition. The match underscored the team’s struggles to provide adequate support to striker Rumarn Burrell, who was often isolated due to a lack of creative midfield play. Despite a solid defensive performance from Jon Russell and Isaac Hayden, the duo failed to drive the team forward, leaving Burrell to contend with long balls and loose passes. Bobby Reid, once a reliable link in the attacking midfield, continued to struggle, offering little in terms of line-breaking passes or dynamic movement. Head Coach Steve McClaren acknowledged the ongoing challenge of finding the right balance in midfield, a problem that has plagued Jamaica throughout their qualifying campaign. While the team’s wide play produced moments of brilliance, such as Renaldo Cephas’s second-half goal, it also marginalized Reid’s role. T&T’s Kevin Molino capitalized on Jamaica’s defensive retreat with an 85th-minute equalizer, leaving McClaren frustrated but hopeful. Jamaica now faces a decisive match against Curaçao, where a win secures their qualification, while anything less could force them to rely on intercontinental play-offs.
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Amazon founder Bezos returns to CEO role with AI startup
Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, is stepping back into an operational leadership role for the first time in four years, spearheading a new artificial intelligence (AI) initiative named Project Prometheus. The venture, which has secured $6.2 billion in funding, aims to revolutionize engineering and manufacturing sectors such as computers, aerospace, and automobiles through advanced AI applications.
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House Speaker delivers hurricane relief supplies to residents of hard-hit communities
In a significant humanitarian effort, Speaker of the House of Representatives Juliet Holness, alongside her Save Our Boys and Girls Foundation, delivered crucial relief supplies to communities in St Elizabeth and Westmoreland devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The initiative, carried out on Saturday, November 15, 2025, aimed to provide immediate support to those most affected by the natural disaster. Holness, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for St Andrew East Rural, personally oversaw the distribution of essential items such as drinking water, food packages, clothing, shoes, tarpaulin, and hygiene kits. In a heartfelt social media post on Sunday, Holness expressed her gratitude to the foundation’s partners and volunteers, emphasizing the importance of their collective mission. ‘Seeing the gratitude and resilience of these communities reminds us why our mission matters,’ she stated. The Save Our Boys and Girls Foundation, established in 2019, focuses on empowering marginalized youth and fostering opportunities for their growth. Holness envisions a future where every child in Jamaica has access to the resources and support needed to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.