KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Government’s ongoing Hurricane Melissa relief efforts have received a major boost, with the “I Love Jamaica” Telethon raising more than $65 million, according to Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia “Babsy” Grange.

The telethon and virtual concert, staged on Sunday and broadcast locally and globally via television and social media, brought together nearly 30 of Jamaica’s top reggae, dancehall, and gospel artistes.

Minister Grange reported that $45.76 million has already been deposited into the Support Jamaica account, and an additional $19.97 million in pledges is expected to be collected shortly.

Expressing gratitude to donors at home and abroad, she noted the significance of the collective effort.

“Thank you to the man and the woman in the street on the island and in the Diaspora, to corporate Jamaica, and to people across the world who are supporting our brothers and sisters hardest hit by this most powerful of hurricanes,” the minister said.

The event was produced through a partnership between the entertainment fraternity and the ministry. Grange praised artistes, sports figures, broadcasters, and corporate partners, including Red Stripe and Digicel for their dedication.

“We are lucky to have such committed, generous, compassionate people who never let us down in times of crisis,” she said.

Corporate partners echoed the message of unity and resilience. Red Stripe Head of Commerce Sean Wallace said the telethon highlighted the enduring strength of the Jamaican people, adding that the company remains committed to supporting communities through recovery.

Digicel’s Head of Marketing, Nicholette McFarlane, described the initiative as an honour, noting the powerful demonstration of unity from Jamaicans worldwide.

Members of the public can continue supporting the national relief programme through supportjamaica.gov.jm and japromise.org.

Donations are also being accepted via text message. To donate Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5501 to donate $150, Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5502 to donate $1,000, Text “GIVE” to 876-444-5503 to donate $5,000

The telethon forms part of the wider I Love Jamaica fundraising initiative, which will also include a series of in-person benefit concerts in major cities with large Jamaican communities, such as London, New York, and Miami.