Efforts to resuscitate the Musgrave Market in Port Antonio, Portland, which was razed earlier this year, have received a boost courtesy of the Flow Foundation.

The organisation recently donated $3 million to the market recovery efforts being spearheaded by the Action Ann Foundation.

Executive Director of the Flow Foundation, Kayon Mitchell, said the entity was inclined to donate as it recognised the urgent need to support the efforts to restore the market and uplift the lives of the vendors affected. She added that the donation is a further testament to the foundation’s commitment to standing in solidarity with the people of Jamaica during difficult times.

“We are saddened by the destruction caused by the fire at Musgrave Market. We understand the significance of this historic marketplace to the local community and its vendors, and we want to contribute to rebuilding efforts to restore the market to its former glory,” shared Mitchell.bu

On May 28, a fire engulfed the Musgrave Market, causing extensive damage to the facility and the livelihoods of over 200 vendors. The market, located in the heart of Port Antonio, has been a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike, serving as a hub for trade, culture, and community.

The Action Ann Foundation will manage and distribute the funds to ensure that the resources reach the vendors and community members most in need.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to the Flow Foundation for this generous donation, which will play a crucial role in helping us rebuild Musgrave Market. This contribution will have a direct and positive impact on the lives of the affected vendors, and it sends a powerful message of unity and support,” said Ann-Marie Vaz, Founder of the Action Ann Foundation.

Among the beneficiaries is the President of the Musgrave Craft Market Association and Craft Vendor, Joan Shaw. She says the donation will go a long way in supporting the displaced vendors, many of whom have no other means of supporting themselves with the closure of the market.

“I feel really happy that Flow and the Flow Foundation decided to help us to get back on our feet. We are going to put these funds to good use, and I’m looking forward to the reopening of the market,” she shared.

Crawford as well as vendor Stacey Ann Brown will also receive three months of free high-speed internet courtesy of Flow Business to help them revitalize their enterprises. Crawford is also excited about the connectivity that the Flow Foundation will provide to the entire market. This, she says, will support her efforts to better connect with her customers using social media and to market her wares to new customers online.

The Action Ann Foundation has set a target of $100 million for its Musgrave Market Fund. Donations to the fund will be used to provide short to medium-term support to the affected vendors and to support the Government’s effort to rebuild the market.