KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a stirring act of solidarity and humanity, American Olympic 100m gold medalist Noah Lyles and Jamaican sprint icon Asafa Powell have joined forces to deliver vital relief to communities in Jamaica devastated by Hurricane Melissa.
The Category 5 hurricane, which struck last Tuesday, tore through St Elizabeth and neighboring western parishes, flattening homes, uprooting livelihoods, and leaving residents in desperate need of assistance.
A mission rooted in love and loyalty
The relief drive was anchored in Georges Valley, St Elizabeth — the hometown of Junelle Bromfield, Lyles’ Jamaican fiancée and a former standout athlete from St Elizabeth Technical High School. With Powell and a volunteer team beside them, the group distributed food supplies, toiletries, and other essentials to residents struggling to recover from the storm’s fury.
For Bromfield, the mission carried deep personal significance. Visibly moved, she reflected on the support her community had given her during her formative years.
“The community was always helping me out, whether it was in high school to go to Penn Relays — they raised money, took me to school for free. So I really wanted to give back,” said Bromfield, her voice heavy with emotion as she surveyed the damage.
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A global athlete answering a local call
Lyles first announced the initiative through his Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation, using his social media platform to mobilize international attention and support.
“Hey everyone, the Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation and Asafa Powell are teaming up to send aid to smaller communities in Jamaica! We have already set a trip for St Elizabeth,” Lyles shared on X (formerly Twitter), signaling the start of their mission.
But for the American champion, one trip was not enough. Lyles urged followers to continue contributing to sustain the relief campaign as it expands into other hard-hit parishes.
“Please help us raise money for our next trip, where we will be targeting areas in Westmoreland and Trelawny. No amount is too big or small. THANK YOU!”
he appealed.
Powell’s commitment to his people
For Powell, who has long been a pillar of Jamaican athletics, the decision to get involved was instantaneous. Living in Jamaica and witnessing the suffering firsthand, he said he felt a moral duty to act.
“There are people who are suffering right now, and as much as I can help, I will help,” said Powell.
“I am in a better position to help, and I see a lot of people helping, and I must give a big thanks to Noah and Junelle.”
Beyond the track — a race to rebuild
What began as an act of compassion has grown into a transnational partnership for relief and recovery, powered by empathy and athletic camaraderie. As the clean-up continues, Lyles, Bromfield, and Powell hope their example inspires others to reach across borders and lend a hand.
Their message is clear: the greatest victories are not won on the track, but in the hearts of those who choose to help others rise again.
