Hurricane Beryl Relief concert surpasses target

Organisers of a benefit concert staged in Canada recently are praising the efforts of the diaspora community which saw the group surpass its target for funds to assist people severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl’s passage in Jamaica.

“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and generosity from our community during the Hurricane Beryl relief concert and associated fundraising efforts. Your contributions and participation have made a significant impact on the lives of those affected in Jamaica. Together, we’ve shown that in times of need, our community comes together with compassion and unity. Thank you for standing with us and making a difference,” Dr Sylvanus Thompson, chair of the relief planning committee, noted in a release.The concert was hosted by the Jamaica Diaspora and Friends of Jamaica in Canada on Thursday, July 18, under the patronage of Marsha Coore-Lobban, high commissioner of Jamaica to Canada.

The fundraising initiative was spearheaded by several community organisations and businesses, including the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Canada (GJDC), Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council (GJDYC), Jamaican Canadian Association, the Alliance of Jamaican Alumni Associations, Big 7 Promotions, Caribbean Queen Jerk, and Reggae North.

The relief concert raised over CDN$16,000, exceeding the stated goal of $10,000. Organisers say the funds will be donated to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) in Jamaica.

The organising committee further acknowledged the ‘generous support’ of donors and restaurants, the event hosts Danae Peart and Chris Hayles, as well as a diverse group of artistes, performers and DJs, who volunteered their time for the cause’.

On July 3, category-4 Hurricane Beryl did significant damage in Jamaica, especially in the parishes of Clarendon, St Elizabeth and Manchester.