In response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, organizers of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival have teamed up with Connex Air Cargo and SSMC Xpress International Couriers to deliver critical relief supplies to hard-hit communities across Jamaica.
The festival, recognized as the largest celebration of Caribbean culture, cuisine, and music in the U.S., takes place this Sunday, November 9, at Miramar Regional Park. This year, in addition to the usual food and entertainment, attendees are being asked to bring donations of non-perishable food items and hurricane supplies to support recovery efforts—particularly in Jamaica’s western rural areas, which bore the brunt of the storm’s destruction.
Supplies can be dropped off at the SSMC Xpress International Couriers booth during the event or through the festival’s broader relief collection network. Connex Air Cargo will handle air transport, airlifting supplies directly to Kingston for rapid distribution, while SSMC Xpress will coordinate collection and consolidation of items in South Florida before shipment.
“The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival has long been a cherished celebration of Jamaican culture, and this year it takes on deeper meaning,” said Eddy Edwards, President & CEO of Jerk Festivals USA. “As our island home recovers from unimaginable devastation, we’re calling on South Florida to stand with Jamaica. ‘Wi likkle but wi tallawah’ isn’t just a saying — it’s the spirit that drives us.”
Jamaican Consul General Oliver Mair also urged members of the diaspora to contribute: “When disaster strikes at home, we feel it in our hearts no matter where we are in the world. Jamaica is hurting — but we are a resilient people. I urge everyone in South Florida to give what they can to help our families and communities rebuild an even stronger Jamaica.”
According to Luke Hamilton, Chairman of Connex Air Cargo, “This partnership is more than logistics — it’s about community, compassion, and connection. We’re honored to use our network and aircraft to deliver hope where it’s needed most.”
The first relief flight is expected to depart Miami within days, carrying food, water, clothing, and hygiene essentials. Donations will be distributed in coordination with Jamaican authorities and trusted local partners to ensure aid reaches those most in need.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025
🕐 Time: 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar, FL 33027
🎟️ Tickets & Info: www.jerkfestival.com
Festival organizers say this year’s event will not only celebrate Jamaica’s culture and culinary heritage — but also serve as a rallying point for compassion and solidarity in the face of tragedy.
