Jamaica Strong benefit concert raises US$500,000

NEW YORK:

The Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, held on December 12, 2025, at UBS Arena in Queens, raised over US$500,000 (approximately J$80 million) in net ticket proceeds, George Crooks, of Jammins Events said. Crooks said the funds raised was to support relief and recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, uniting the global Jamaican diaspora in a shared humanitarian response.

Bobby Clarke, co-founder of the Irie Jam Foundation, said, proceeds from the concert will be distributed to trusted organisations actively engaged in relief and recovery efforts, including: $150,000 to Shaggy’s Make a Difference Foundation; $150,000 to the Sean Paul Foundation; $150,000 to the Government of Jamaica Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund and $50,000 to the Irie Jam Foundation, designated to assist with the repair and rebuilding of primary schools in the county of Cornwall, among the areas hardest hit by the storm.

“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 noted.

“Caribbean artistes donated their time and talent, using music and culture as vehicles for unity, healing, and advocacy during a moment of national crisis,” Kacy Rankine, CEO of Roadblock radio shared.

Nearly 10,000 passionate supporters filled the arena, reflecting extraordinary engagement from the Jamaican diaspora and friends of Jamaica who came together to demonstrate solidarity, compassion, and resolve.

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 came together to transform collective concern into coordinated action through transparency, accountability, and community-driven leadership.

While the concert marked a significant milestone, organisers emphasised that recovery remains ongoing and sustained support is essential to restoring stability, dignity, and opportunity for those affected by Hurricane Melissa. The spirit of Jamaica Strong continues.