Photo: Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert
The Caribbean's biggest artists are coming together to raise funds for Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
On Wednesday, November 12, Shaggy announced the upcoming Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert featuring performances by Sean Paul, KES, T.O.K., Inner Circle and more. The rare event, which is produced by the “I Love Jamaica Concert Series” in partnership with the Government of Jamaica, is set for December 12 at the UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. The show aims to raise necessary funds for the island nation’s official Hurricane Relief & Recovery Fund, which assists families and communities affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Proceeds from the show will go toward Shaggy’s “Make A Difference Foundation," Food For The Poor Jamaica, The Irie Jam Radio Foundation and the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York. The announcement comes several weeks after artists like Sean Paul, Shenseea and Nicki Minaj shared their efforts to help out the people of Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa ripped through the island. The Dutty Rock artist revealed that he was barricaded inside his home when the storm hit the island and shared footage of his property amid the aftermath. He also announced his foundation would team up with Food For The Poor Jamaica to begin raising funds and sending aid to families in need.
"My island of Jamaica is going through a really tough time," he wrote on Instagram. "Hurricane Melissa has caused serious damage, and many of our brothers and sisters are struggling — families displaced, homes destroyed, and communities in need of help. Through the Sean Paul Foundation, we’ve partnered with Food For The Poor Jamaica to bring relief directly to those affected," he continued. "I’m asking all my fans, friends, and supporters worldwide, if you can, please give what you can. Every donation counts, no matter how small. Together, we can make a big difference. And to show how much this means to me, I’ll be matching every dollar raised, up to fifty thousand dollars. Together, we can double the impact and help even more families get back on their feet."
Tickets for the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert are on sale now via Ticketmaster.