Reggae icons Gramps Morgan and Luciano will be the headliners at the ‘For The Children’ Charity Gala set this year for Cipriani 42nd Street in New York on May 11.

According to Alexandra Thomson- Ghisays, group PR director, Couples Resorts, the entertainers and supporting acts are equally passionate about giving back to the youth.

“We are excited to have Grammy winner Gramps Morgan and the renowned Luciano headlining our gala. Both artistes are not only outstanding performers but also share a deep passion for Jamaica and its children. Their support underscores the importance of our cause and we are grateful for their dedication to making a difference to the lives of our youth. Additionally, we are honoured to have Third World, our Goodwill Reggae Ambassadors, along with Kumar, joining us once again to provide their unwavering support for this critical cause,” she told the Jamaica Observer.

Proceeds from the event will go towards the Mary Issa Paediatric & Adolescent Health Centre.

The 9,000 square feet facility, located just 20 minutes from Ocho Rios, will be the first of its kind, providing crucial health-care services to children and adolescents in Jamaica.

Throughout the year, with visiting specialists, the centre will offer expertise in paediatric cardiology, nephrology, gastroenterology, and oncology. Other services will also be offered, such as vision screening along with free glasses if needed.

“It’s going to be a fantastic evening… a Cipriani-standard served gourmet dinner, silent auction, dancing, and a spectacular show with these all-time reggae greats,” Paul Issa, chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, stated.

During last year’s staging of the gala, a whopping US$417,000 was raised, surpassing the initial US$200,000 goal. Thomson- Ghisays did not specify a target for this year.

The group PR director is encouraging the public to contribute to the worthy cause.

“The fund-raiser directly impacts the lives of children in Jamaica. Together, we can create lasting change and ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive,” she said.

The Issa Trust Foundation was established in 2005 by Couples Resorts as a non-profit organisation. The mission of the foundation is to provide a system of prevention, health promotion and education, community health improvement, and other services to promote well-being and development.