Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert Raises Over $500,000 for Hurricane Melissa Relief

The Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, held on December 12, 2025, at UBS Arena, raised more than $500,000 in net ticket proceeds to support relief and recovery efforts following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. The landmark event united the global Jamaican diaspora in a powerful humanitarian response rooted in music, culture, and collective responsibility.

Conceived as an urgent call to action, the concert aimed to elevate international awareness of the storm’s human toll while delivering direct financial assistance to communities across the island working to rebuild. Attendance reached just under 10,000 supporters, underscoring strong diaspora engagement and a shared commitment to Jamaica’s recovery.

Funds Directed to Trusted Relief Organizations

Proceeds from the concert will be distributed to organizations actively engaged in hurricane relief and long-term recovery, including:

• $150,000 to the Government of Jamaica Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund
• $150,000 to Shaggy’s Make a Difference Foundation
• $150,000 to the Sean Paul Foundation
• $50,000 to the Irie Jam Foundation, designated for repairing and rebuilding primary schools in Jamaica’s Cornwall County

More Than a Fundraiser

Beyond its financial impact, the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert served as a global platform to sustain attention on the ongoing needs of families, farmers, students, and communities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Caribbean artists donated their time and talent, using music as a vehicle for unity, healing, and advocacy during a moment of national crisis.

Community-Led Collaboration

The concert was organized by Irie Jam Radio, the Irie Jam Foundation, Jammins Events, and RoadBlock Radio—New York–based cultural and media organizations that came together to transform collective concern into coordinated action. Organizers emphasized transparency, accountability, and community-driven leadership as guiding principles behind the initiative.

Gratitude—and the Road Ahead

Organizers expressed heartfelt gratitude to sponsors, patrons, media partners, volunteers, artists, and the wider Caribbean diaspora whose generosity made the concert possible. While the event marked a significant milestone in the relief effort, organizers stressed that recovery remains ongoing, and sustained support is essential to restoring stability, dignity, and opportunity for those impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

The Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert stands as a testament to the power of unity—demonstrating how music, culture, and community can come together to answer a nation’s call in its time of need.