KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Christopher Martin Foundation teamed up with the Bright Beginnings Charity Group to deliver much-needed relief and emotional support to children affected by Hurricane Melissa through the “Bringing Hope” initiative.

The youth-led outreach brought assistance to more than 200 children between the ages of 10 and 16 in communities across Trelawny, including Zion and Kinloss, as well as those temporarily housed at Holland High and William Knibb High Schools.

The initiative, founded by Campion College students Kris-Sarai Martin and Anna-Lyssa Cooke, mobilised volunteers and corporate sponsors to distribute over 300 care packages containing hygiene kits, snacks, clothing, and comfort items.

Christopher Martin Foundation teams up with the Bright Beginnings Charity Group to deliver hurricane relief support to children affected by Hurricane Melissa

Children also received hot meals, water, and access to phone charging stations and basic medical care.

International reggae and dancehall artist Christopher Martin, who leads the foundation, said he was deeply moved by the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

“It broke my heart to see the reports and images of the destruction our brothers and sisters are facing right here on our beautiful island,” Martin said.

“When Kris-Sarai and Anna-Lyssa came to me with their idea to focus on children who might be overlooked in the broader relief efforts, I was ready to support them in any way I could. Our children are our future.”

Christopher Martin Foundation teams up with the Bright Beginnings Charity Group to deliver hurricane relief support to children affected by Hurricane Melissa

The foundation expressed gratitude to volunteers and donors, with special thanks to Hyundai Jamaica, Digicel Jamaica, Wisynco Group Limited, Big Yard Studios, and Tango Entertainment for their contributions to the mission.

Martin also praised the student founders, saying their compassion and leadership reflected the best of Jamaica’s youth.

“Kris-Sarai and Anna-Lyssa, continue to drive change and inspire your peers. You’ve shown that no act of kindness is too small and that together, we can all make a difference,” he added.

Christopher Martin and his team from the Christopher Martin Foundation which teamed up with the Bright Beginnings Charity Group to deliver hurricane relief support to children affected by Hurricane Melissa

The Christopher Martin Foundation continues to focus on empowering youth and uplifting communities, emphasising that “hope shines brightest through the hearts of those who care.”

As part of ongoing national recovery efforts, Christopher Martin is slated to headline the Hurricane Melissa Virtual Concert and Telethon on Sunday, November 16, from 3:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

The event, announced by Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia “Babsy” Grange, forms part of the “I Love Jamaica” series and aims to raise US$1 million for disaster relief and rebuilding.