2 weeks ago
5
Dancehall diva D’Angel is in full give-back mode as she prepares to visit communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa, which ripped through Jamaica on Tuesday.
“I have been watching the videos of all the devastation and my heart is burdened. I saw a man from Trelawny crying ... this situation is so sad. This is the time for all of us to really put hearts and hands together and make a difference in the lives of our brothers and sisters who are affected by this devastation,” a passionate Michelle ‘D’Angel’ Downer told The Gleaner, adding that she is giving God thanks that she and her loved ones are safe and sound.
She has already identified areas in Spanish Town and its environs where the need is greatest and is prepared to go, no matter the challenges.
“This time I will have to go to the people who are in need. Just like how The Gleaner and THE STAR and the other media houses find a way into those communities, I will find a way,” she vowed.
The Good Good Gyal deejay is known for her philanthropy and ongoing charitable work through her Angel’s Foundation Jamaica, which she officially established nine years ago. Her annual initiatives include back-to-school and Christmas treats, as well as assistance for the elderly. In 2021, D’Angel made headlines when she began building a house for a man named Mr Pint, who lived in Rivoli, the Spanish Town community where she grew up.
Last year, D’Angel was named the Humanitarian of the Year by the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), and in 2023, she was the recipient of the Irie FM Humanitarian Award.
“I have a lot of clothes sorting through. My room right now is full of clothes ... mine and Marco Dean’s. I am making sure to give the sort of things I would want to receive ... good quality and practical,” she shared.
D’Angel, who also plans to purchase non-perishable food items to distribute along with clothing, emphasised that “a little kindness goes a long way” while making a plea for persons to donate to her foundation.
“My foundation is fully registered and we have accountability. The fact is, however, that we can do so much more with a little assistance from more individuals and companies. We need the support to give the support. I have been asking for years and I am grateful to those who have heard the pleas and have come on board. At this time there is a crisis. We want to be able to help in the rebuilding process ... so many houses have been reduced to rubble ... people are homeless. As Jamaicans, we are resilient and strong. We are going to turn up for Jamaica. Those who want to help through Angel’s Foundation can contact us via WhatsApp on 876-288-8047,” she stated.
Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful hurricanes to strike Jamaica and the Atlantic Basin in 2025, made landfall on Tuesday afternoon as a Category 5 system with maximum sustained winds of about 185 mph, devastating the western and southern sections of the island.
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