In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica in October 2025, recovery efforts have moved beyond immediate relief towards the longer, more complex task of rebuilding. At the centre of this next phase is a newly formed diaspora-led organisation aiming to shift the focus from short-term aid to long-term resilience.
Right Now for Jamaica (RNFJ), a 501(c)(3) non-profit registered in Florida and Maryland and established in early 2026, is mobilising support through its inaugural Fundraiser Gala Dinner & Concert, set for March 28 in Bowie, Maryland. The event will bring together members of the Jamaican diaspora, policymakers, corporate leaders and philanthropists, united by a shared goal: rebuilding stronger, more sustainable communities across the island.
A Response to What Comes After Relief
RNFJ was born out of the realisation that disaster response does not end with immediate relief, but requires sustained effort long after the headlines fade.
While emergency aid such as food, water and hygiene supplies is critical in the immediate aftermath of a storm, the longer-term work of rebuilding infrastructure, restoring services and strengthening communities is often under-resourced. RNFJ was created to address that gap.
Led by President Ron McKay, former President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Jamaica, and Vice President Dr. Maurice Miles, a Maryland-based dental professional with longstanding ties to Jamaica’s healthcare system, the organisation is positioning itself as a bridge between relief and recovery.
Since its formation, RNFJ has already begun work in some of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa, particularly in St. Elizabeth. To date, the organisation has delivered over US$100,000 in medical supplies to healthcare facilities in the region. Rather than distributing generic aid, RNFJ works closely with local leaders and medical professionals to ensure that supplies meet the specific needs of doctors and nurses on the ground.
Its mission is not only to restore what was lost, but to help build systems that are more resilient for the future.
Mobilising Support Through Community
On March 28, 2026, RNFJ will host its Inaugural Fundraiser Gala Dinner & Concert at the Royal Ballroom in Bowie, Maryland, bringing together policymakers, corporate leaders and philanthropists from across the diaspora in support of rebuilding efforts in Jamaica.
The evening will honour Audrey P. Marks with RNFJ’s inaugural President’s Award, with Antony Anderson, Ambassador of Jamaica to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), also expected to be in attendance.
Entertainment will be headlined by Etana, alongside Mykal Rose, Julian Junior Marvin and The Wailers, bringing together music and philanthropy in support of a shared cause.
Funds raised will support key recovery efforts across healthcare, education and infrastructure, including rebuilding schools damaged or de-roofed during the storm, continuing upgrades and expansion at Percy Junor Hospital, and backing community-led infrastructure projects in some of the hardest-hit rural areas.
A Long-Term Commitment to Percy Junor Hospital
One of RNFJ’s most significant initiatives is its decision to “adopt” Percy Junor Hospital, a key healthcare facility serving the parishes of Manchester, Clarendon and St. Elizabeth.
The hospital was significantly impacted by the hurricane, and RNFJ has committed to supporting its recovery over the long term. This goes beyond a one-time donation. The organisation is working to source critical equipment, fund repairs, expand infrastructure and ensure that the hospital can continue to serve the thousands of Jamaicans who depend on it.
Funds raised from the gala will support this ongoing work, alongside other key recovery efforts including rebuilding schools that were damaged or de-roofed during the storm and supporting community-led infrastructure projects in some of the hardest-hit rural areas.
Contributors and Partnerships
RNFJ’s work is being powered by a growing network of diaspora support, alongside corporate and institutional partners.
Corporate and organisational support includes presenting sponsor Yassuh, alongside partners such as Jamaica Tourist Board, Intelligent Multimedia and Rainforest Seafood.
Together, these partnerships are helping to scale RNFJ’s efforts and extend its reach across both Jamaica and the diaspora.
Building Beyond Recovery
At the heart of RNFJ’s work is its Sustainable Renewal Programme, which focuses on rebuilding with resilience in mind.
Rather than simply replacing what was lost, the organisation is prioritising improvements such as hurricane-resistant structures and future-ready facilities, including the potential for solar-powered schools and upgraded healthcare infrastructure.
As Jamaica continues to recover from Hurricane Melissa, RNFJ’s approach reflects a broader shift in how recovery is being defined—moving beyond immediate relief towards building stronger, more resilient communities for the future.
