The Government’s ongoing Hurricane Melissa relief efforts have received a major financial boost, with the “I Love Jamaica” Telethon raising more than $65 million, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia “Babsy” Grange has announced.
The telethon and virtual concert, broadcast on Sunday across television and multiple online platforms, featured nearly 30 top Jamaican artistes spanning reggae, dancehall, and gospel. The event reached audiences locally and across the Diaspora.
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Minister Grange reported that $45.76 million has already been deposited into the Support Jamaica account, while an additional $19.97 million in pledges is expected in short order.
Expressing deep gratitude to donors worldwide, she highlighted the importance of unity during national crisis:
“Thank you to the man and woman in the street on the island and in the Diaspora, to corporate Jamaica, and to people across the world who are supporting our brothers and sisters hardest hit by this most powerful of hurricanes,” Grange said.
The telethon was produced in partnership with the entertainment fraternity and the ministry. Grange praised artistes, athletes, broadcasters, and major corporate partners—including Red Stripe and Digicel—for their unwavering support.
Red Stripe’s Head of Commerce, Sean Wallace, said the telethon demonstrated the resilience of the Jamaican people, while Digicel’s Head of Marketing, Nicholette McFarlane, described the event as an honour, noting the global show of solidarity from Jamaicans.
The public can continue contributing to national recovery efforts through supportjamaica.gov.jm and japromise.org. Donations are also being accepted via text:
- Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5501 to donate $150
- Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5502 to donate $1,000
- Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5503 to donate $5,000
The telethon forms part of the broader I Love Jamaica fundraising initiative, which will include a series of in-person benefit concerts in major cities with strong Jamaican communities, such as London, New York, and Miami.
