The Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, held on December 12, 2025, at UBS Arena in Queens, New York, raised more than US$500,000 (approximately J$80 million) in net ticket proceeds to support relief and recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, organisers announced.
George Crooks of Jammins Events said the funds reflect a strong humanitarian response from the global Jamaican Diaspora, united in support of communities affected by the storm.
Bobby Clarke, co-founder of the Irie Jam Foundation, said the proceeds will be distributed among trusted organisations actively involved in recovery work. The allocations include US$150,000 each to Shaggy’s Make a Difference Foundation, the Sean Paul Foundation, and the Government of Jamaica’s Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund, along with US$50,000 to the Irie Jam Foundation. The latter will be used to assist with the repair and rebuilding of primary schools in the county of Cornwall, one of the areas hardest hit by the hurricane.
“By directing funds to both national and community-based organisations we are ensuring that support reaches persons, families, and communities where the need is most immediate and the impact most meaningful,” Clarke said.
Kacy Rankine, CEO of RoadBlock Radio, highlighted the role of music and culture in the relief effort, noting that Caribbean artistes donated their time and talent in response to the national crisis.
“Caribbean artistes donated their time and talent, using music and culture as vehicles for unity, healing, and advocacy during a moment of national crisis,” Rankine said.
She also expressed gratitude to sponsors, patrons, media partners, volunteers, and members of the wider Caribbean Diaspora, saying the concert succeeded in both drawing global attention to the human toll of Hurricane Melissa and mobilising meaningful financial support for rebuilding efforts.
Nearly 10,000 supporters filled UBS Arena, underscoring strong engagement from the Jamaican Diaspora and friends of Jamaica who came together in a show of solidarity and compassion.
The concert was organised by Irie Jam Radio, the Irie Jam Foundation, Jammins Events, and RoadBlock Radio—New York-based cultural and media organisations that collaborated to turn concern into coordinated action, guided by transparency, accountability, and community leadership.
Organisers said that while the concert marked a significant milestone, recovery efforts are ongoing and sustained support remains critical to restoring stability, dignity, and opportunity for those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
