Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Community Resilience
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaica, the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is stepping up to make a difference. This beloved festival, known for its vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, cuisine, and music, is joining forces with Connex Air Cargo and SSMC Xpress International Couriers to deliver essential relief supplies to the hardest-hit communities across Jamaica.
A Call to Action
This year, the festival takes on a deeper significance. Scheduled for Sunday, November 9, at Miramar Regional Park, attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items and hurricane supplies. The focus is on supporting recovery efforts, especially in Jamaica’s western rural areas, which faced the brunt of the storm’s fury.
“Every little bit helps,” says Eddy Edwards, President & CEO of Jerk Festivals USA. “As our island home recovers from unimaginable devastation, we’re calling on South Florida to stand with Jamaica. ‘Wi likkle but wi tallawah’ isn’t just a saying — it’s the spirit that drives us.”
How It Works
Festival-goers can drop off donations at the SSMC Xpress International Couriers booth during the event. Additionally, the festival has established a broader relief collection network. Connex Air Cargo will handle the air transport, ensuring that supplies are airlifted directly to Kingston for rapid distribution. Meanwhile, SSMC Xpress will coordinate the collection and consolidation of items in South Florida before shipment.
Jamaican Consul General Oliver Mair echoed the importance of community support: “When disaster strikes at home, we feel it in our hearts no matter where we are in the world. Jamaica is hurting — but we are a resilient people. I urge everyone in South Florida to give what they can to help our families and communities rebuild an even stronger Jamaica.”
Delivering Hope
Luke Hamilton, Chairman of Connex Air Cargo, emphasizes the emotional aspect of this initiative: “This partnership is more than logistics — it’s about community, compassion, and connection. We’re honored to use our network and aircraft to deliver hope where it’s needed most.” The first relief flight is expected to depart Miami within days, carrying vital supplies like food, water, clothing, and hygiene essentials.
Event Details
Mark your calendars! Here’s what you need to know about the festival:
- Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025
- Time: 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Location: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar, FL 33027
- Tickets & Info: www.jerkfestival.com
This year’s event promises not only to celebrate Jamaica’s rich culture and culinary heritage but also to serve as a rallying point for compassion and solidarity in the face of tragedy.
A Community United
As the festival approaches, the spirit of unity and resilience shines bright. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, communities can come together to uplift one another. Will you join in this effort to support Jamaica? Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a world of difference.