Entertainment and philanthropy came together in a meaningful fashion as Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records (UBTR), dancehall star Govana, and Yung Kings Entertainment extended a major lifeline to Mount Ward Primary School in Hanover.
The partners handed over a $600,000 donation to the hurricane-ravaged institution, providing timely support as the new school year gets underway. The contribution, presented on January 12 at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records in Kingston, will aid ongoing rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Melisa tore through the island’s western parishes in late October.
Mount Ward Primary, located near the Hanover–St James border, was among the hardest hit by the Category 5 storm. The school lost its entire roof, leaving its population of 120 students without proper classrooms, administrative offices, or bathroom facilities. Since the disaster, the institution has been forced to operate on a shift system, with students attending classes on rotating days.
The donation was generated from proceeds of the bi-monthly Livewire event, a hurricane relief drive headlined by Govana in November.
Principal Paula Chambers-Morris expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance, noting that the contribution arrived at a critical moment.
“This act of kindness has provided much-needed support at a time when our school is facing significant challenges to its infrastructure and daily operations,” she said. “It will go a long way in restoring stability and hope for our students and their families. We are deeply appreciative of the compassion and generosity shown, which reflects a strong commitment to community upliftment and the welfare of our nation’s children.”
The handover was facilitated by UBTR Marketing Manager Jizell Cowan and ARTS Chic Agency CEO Angiel Myers.
Cowan reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to national recovery efforts. “Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records continues to stand with Jamaicans for the long haul as recovery efforts continue,” she said. “While we are known for quality food and entertainment, supporting our communities is also central to our ‘Real Jamaican Vibes’. We trust this donation will help restore normalcy and position our children for success.”
Yung Kings Entertainment’s Carlton Davy highlighted the broader role of the entertainment industry in nation-building. “Entertainment is a major contributor to Jamaica’s economy, supporting many livelihoods beyond artistes and promoters,” he said. “Despite being impacted by the hurricane ourselves, it was important for us as event planners to join the effort and assist a school in need.”
While most schools resumed the new academic term earlier this month, Mount Ward Primary continues to adjust to a challenging new reality. With support from UBTR, Govana, and Yung Kings Entertainment, however, the school is now firmly on the road to recovery.
, dancehall star Govana, and Yung Kings Entertainment extended a major lifeline to Mount Ward Primary.){kind=link}