Jamaica Foundation Hamilton to hold benefit concert for hurricane relief

The Jamaican community in Hamilton is coming together with a benefit concert to support the country in the wake of a devastating hurricane.

The Jamaica Foundation (Hamilton) event will be held at the Michelangelo Banquet Centre on Nov. 8, with doors open at 5 p.m. Guests include Soundblast, Tania Lou and Ras Yanks.

The Afro Canadian Caribbean Association (ACCA) and the Hamilton Caribbean Women are also collaborating with the fundraising and on Nov. 4 launched ‘Helping Jamaica Rebuild,’ a city-wide campaign to mobilize donations, partnerships and local support to aid in recovery and rebuilding efforts.

The campaign aims to raise $100,000, with donations and funds to go Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management.

The ACCA will also hold its annual Fabulicious! event on Nov. 16 in partnership with the Art Gallery of Hamilton.

Category 5 Hurricane Melissa hit the island nation on Oct. 28 and also greatly impacted Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

The death toll in Jamaica has now reached 32 and insurance losses are estimated to be $4 billion.

The Jamaica Foundation (Hamilton) began in 1988 when Jamaica was devastated by Hurricane Gilbert.

READ MORE: Hamilton community rallies to support Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa’s devastation