New York -The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), a non-profit organisation that provides funds to educational, health and community organisations in Jamaica, will host its 24th Annual Jamaica Benefit Gala this Saturday at New York’s famous Copacabana.

Western Union International and Jamaica’s Grace, Kennedy & Co will also be honoured at the function for their contributions to Jamaican society, particularly in the area of education.

Last year the two companies joined forces with AFJ and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to provide mathematics textbooks to Jamaican children island-wide.

This donation was estimated to have influenced the lives of more than 300,000 elementary-school pupils.

This year, Western Union International and Grace, Kennedy Remittance Services have again pledged US$100,000 each towards a similar objective.

“We feel very happy this year to be honouring two world-class corporations that have proven their commitment to development in Jamaica,” said Glen A Holden, former US ambassador to Jamaica and current AFJ president.

“For nearly a quarter of a century our Gala has successfully raised funds for Jamaica and we are proud to continue that tradition,” added AFJ’s Chief Operating Officer Keisha Phipps.

Supporters of this year’s 24th charity gala will include Ralph Lauren, Jockey International, Air Jamaica, Spirit Airlines, Sandals, SuperClubs, Round Hill, Half Moon, Appleton Rum, Jamaica’s Bijoux Jewelers and other businesses.