3 days ago
5
The Weeknd is stepping up for Jamaica at one of its most critical moments. The global superstar has donated a whopping $56 million JMD (U$350,000) through his XO Humanitarian Fund to support families devastated by Hurricane Melissa, a storm that impacted an estimated six million people across the region last month. Announced on Thursday by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the contribution will help deliver food and emergency aid to as many as 200,000 vulnerable Jamaicans still struggling to rebuild their lives.
WFP CEO Barron Segar praised the artist’s generosity, calling his support “much-needed comfort and resilience” for communities hit the hardest. The agency has been working alongside the Jamaican government to identify families most in need, and so far has reached more than 9,000 people with food kits stocked with rice, canned meats, and vegetable oils — essentials that can sustain households for several days. With The Weeknd’s donation, those efforts will scale significantly, expanding relief to areas where residents are still cut off or facing severe shortages.
The singer’s humanitarian track record continues to broaden. Earlier this year, his foundation donated US$1 million to support victims, firefighters, and recovery efforts during Los Angeles’ destructive wildfire season. His giving culture has also inspired other celebrities to rally behind Jamaica: Nicki Minaj, Sean Paul, and Tyrese Gibson have all contributed through their foundations or by distributing supplies directly to storm-affected communities.
With recovery efforts expected to continue into 2026, The Weeknd’s donation arrives at a pivotal time for families trying to regain stability. As international partners scale relief, Jamaicans are hopeful that this wave of global support will push the country one step closer to rebuilding stronger than before.
Share this post:
English (US) ·