Hurricane Melissa Relief Effort in Jamaica – Bob Marley Foundationhttps://bobmarleyfoundation.org/news/hurricane-melissa-relief-effort-in-jamaica/
When the fierce winds of Hurricane Melissa blasted through Jamaica as a Category 5 tempest, they didn’t just tear off zinc roofs and flood coastal roads — they tested the spirit of a people who have always known how to turn struggle into strength. Across the island — from the farmlands of St. Elizabeth to the beaches of St. James — recovery and renewal are being powered not only by major nonprofits, but by neighbours who refuse to let one another fall alone.
At the forefront of these efforts is the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation, which quickly launched its “One Love. One Jamaica. One Mission.” relief campaign. True to the Marley legacy, the Foundation is not just writing cheques — it’s showing up. Teams have been working hand-in-hand with local volunteers to deliver food, water, mattresses, and building materials to families whose homes were destroyed. Mobile relief trucks bearing the iconic One Love emblem have been spotted in several parishes, distributing supplies while offering encouragement and comfort through the unmistakable rhythm of Marley music.
In St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland — two of the hardest-hit parishes — the Foundation has partnered with community centres and churches to set up temporary shelters and coordinate debris removal. In Kingston, their staff is working alongside the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to identify long-term rebuilding needs. Beyond immediate aid, the Foundation’s goal is holistic recovery: helping families not only rebuild structures, but also restore stability and dignity.
Meanwhile, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) has activated a $1 million matching fund to double every donation made toward post-Melissa relief and recovery. Through their network of Jamaican and U.S. partners, AFJ has been distributing emergency supplies across the six most severely affected parishes — Manchester, St. Elizabeth, Trelawny, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St. James — with special attention to schools, clinics, and community farms.
But perhaps the most moving response has come from ordinary citizens. In rural communities, neighbours have turned into first responders — clearing blocked roads, sharing fuel and generators, and opening homes to displaced families. Youth groups in Trelawny and Hanover have organised “light-up drives,” providing solar lamps and charging stations for areas still without electricity. Churches in St. James have transformed sanctuaries into community kitchens. The outpouring of love and cooperation feels like an embodiment of the very message the Marleys built their music upon: unity, compassion, and collective healing.
Together, the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation, American Friends of Jamaica, and countless volunteers are composing a new rhythm of resilience — one that beats to the sound of shared humanity.
In moments like this, we’re reminded that we are all Spiritual Influencers — each of us holding the power to impact the world by the way we show up. Whether through our giving, our service, our prayers, or simply our presence, we have the ability to spark hope and light in dark places. Jamaica’s story isn’t just one of survival; it’s a reflection of what happens when love becomes action, and faith becomes movement.
Throughout history, the massive cultural contributions of this small but powerfully wonderous island and it’s gifted, beautiful people – in science, arts, sport, and social empowerment – has served to inspire, advance, and uplift mankind all over the world. Now, in the spirit of Bob Marley’s lyrics, “One love, one heart, let’s get together”, the rest of the world comes together in solidarity with Jamaica to support recovery and restoration — one family, one act of love, one home rebuilt at a time…one mission fulfilled.
By Myshjua Allen Murray
Creative entrepreneur, cultural strategist, and founder of One Life Live Lit — a lifestyle platform inspiring intentional, spirit-driven living.
Myshjua uses her voice and vision to bridge creativity, culture, and purpose through storytelling that uplifts and connects. Her work with music, community development, and legacy projects continues to champion the belief that we are all “Spiritual Influencers” — each with the power to impact the world by the way we show up.
