Hurricane Melissa recently devastated Jamaica, displacing thousands and leaving communities struggling to rebuild homes and restore livelihoods. Nearly one million of Jamaica’s 2.8 million residents have been affected, with around 150,000 homes damaged or destroyed. Estimated losses stand at £6 billion.
In response, two inspiring 20-year-olds, Amira Mitchell and Karshima Williamson, organised the “Luton for Jamaica” fundraising concert at a very short notice. The event may not have raised billions, but the impact was profound. The message was clear: “Every little helps. In Jamaica, they need absolutely everything—even the donation of a packet of tea would be useful.”
Amira said, “When the hurricane struck, I was at my grandmother’s house watching the news. Seeing families lose everything in minutes was heartbreaking. It reminded me how much we take for granted.”
The concert was a vibrant evening filled with music, authentic Caribbean food, and community spirit. Amira and Karshima shared: “It was amazing to see so many people come together. Our goal is to help Jamaica rise stronger than before—turning its loss into resilience and lasting renewal.”
“Together, we can rebuild. Together, we can give hope. Together, we can make a difference.”
Pastor Trevor Adams blessed the event and praised the young organisers for their first-ever initiative.
The event co-hosts Bob Baker and Lee Drummond added, “We got nothing but admiration for Amira & Karshima, for pulling off such a great event. Luton has a significant Jamaican and Caribbean community. Their coming together tonight shows that we care—not just locally, but globally.”
As a Commonwealth nation with the King as head of state, many believe the UK government has a greater responsibility to support Jamaica. Activists are calling for humanitarian visas for those affected. They feel when the hurricane first hit, the immediate anxiety was to bring back the tourists. After that it fell away from the public eye.
Meanwhile, the Luton for Jamaica Team urges continued local action:
“If you couldn’t attend the concert, you can still help by donating funds or essential supplies. Together, we can create meaningful change.”
Please Donate here: https://www.foodforthepoorja.org/who-we-are.php
or at
https://www.gofundme.com/f/luton-for-jamaica.
Thank you for your kindness, and generosity.
