In a united effort to rebuild homes, restore livelihoods, and renew hope for those affected by Hurricane Melissa, a fundraising concert for Jamaica will take place on Sunday 17 May 2026 at The Advent Centre, West London.
Following the devastating impact of the Category 5 hurricane, families in the communities of Folly Hill, Foster’s Grove, Whitehouse, and Westmoreland have suffered the loss of homes, income, and stability.
Concert organiser Joan Reid, who visited the affected areas earlier this year, shared her experience:
“I went to Jamaica for two reasons – to see the devastation for myself and to identify a community that we could help.”
With the assistance of retired church minister Pastor Simeon Esson, who lives near the affected areas, a specific community was identified.
“The Folly Hill residents in Whitehouse, Westmoreland were devastated, losing not just their homes but also their means of income, as the majority of residents were fishermen,” Reid explained.
“Despite heeding warnings to move their boats and fishing equipment inland, the scale of the storm meant that everything was destroyed.”
Rebuilding Lives and Livelihoods
The project aims to:
- Rebuild 12 homes
- Repair five severely damaged homes
- Support fishermen in replacing their boats and fishing equipment, enabling them to restore their livelihoods
The total estimated cost of the project is £137,000.
Reid highlighted the inspiration behind the initiative through a well-known Jamaican proverb:
“One One Coco Full Basket reminds us that when everyone contributes – even in small ways – together we can achieve something significant.”
She added:
“I am asking everyone to do their part so that we can accomplish this goal. In practical terms, 2,740 people giving £50 is equivalent to 274 churches giving £500.”
Reflecting on her visit, Reid spoke of both resilience and trauma within the community:
“I witnessed people coming together to support one another, but I also met individuals so traumatised they found it difficult to speak about their experience. Those who did share said they never want to go through something like that again.”
An Evening of Support and Solidarity
The WI Still Standing: ‘One One Coco Full Basket’ Fundraising Concert will feature:
- Live music
- Comedy
- Food available for purchase
The event offers an opportunity for the wider community to come together in support of those rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
Event Details
Venue: The Advent Centre
39 Brendon Street, London, W1H 5JE
Date: Sunday 12 July 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Tickets & Enquiries:
Joan Reid – 07947 158537
