PLANTATION, Fla. — The South Florida Caribbean Chorale is singing Jamaican Christmas songs with a purpose: supporting relief efforts in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa devastated parts of the island in late October.

As the group performed classics — including the refrain “all over Jamaica everybody Jesus born” — many in the audience said they were there because they want to see their home country restored.

“A lot of people in Green Island where I know people, what I see in the news — they need help,” said Yvonne Finnikin, a Jamaican national living in South Florida.

Hurricane Melissa destroyed homes and disrupted lives across western Jamaica. With the holiday season approaching, many Jamaicans abroad say it has been difficult getting aid to everyone affected.

“The other day, I understand they had some air drops of food because the roads are so impassable,” said Jamaican national Janet Beckford. “So they’re dropping food. So we’re trying to send stuff down.”

This benefit concert, organized by South Florida Caribbean Chorale founder and director Steve Higgins, is the fourth in a series aimed at raising funds for relief. The previous show raised more than $25,000.

“Two days after the hurricane, we were ready with flyers and started to spread the message — we have to start raising funds for Jamaica,” Higgins said.

Donations have been coming in steadily, from essential goods to monetary contributions.

“Please, I’m asking people to reach out and help because we need that in Jamaica,” Finnikin said.

Food For The Poor is also partnering in the effort, supporting the free Christmas concert series. Organizers say this won’t be the last show — the chorale has been invited to perform in Weston, with additional concerts planned for early 2026.

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