Two reggae icons have made a heartfelt plea for assistance in delivering aid to Jamaica, which was struck by hurricane Melissa just a week prior.

While supporting a fundraising initiative in Leyton, east London, Maxi Priest and Luciano encouraged individuals to contribute any items they could spare for a shipment scheduled to depart for the island on Friday.

“Every little bit counts; we must take action,” Maxi Priest stated.

The hurricane has claimed the lives of at least 30 individuals in Jamaica, leaving entire communities devastated.

Maxi recounted his narrow escape from the storm, as he had been on the island for a funeral in St. Elizabeth parish, exiting just a day before the hurricane struck.

“The service was rescheduled from the afternoon to the morning, allowing me to catch one of the last flights out, and then this disaster unfolded,” he remarked.

“I feel somewhat powerless.”

He shared distressing news from his friends and family, describing roads collapsing, people resorting to standing on tabletops, and the occurrence of mudslides.

Luciano, the Grammy-nominated reggae musician, expressed: “We must show our compassion and generosity to those who are suffering the most.

“What transpired in Jamaica is heartbreaking.”

He added that numerous areas have become unreachable due to blocked roads littered with debris, making transit impossible.

“Local residents have stepped up, donating food and various items—it’s heartening to realize that kindness still exists in the world,” he said.

Jamaican-born comedian Harry Gregory, known as White Yardie, also shared his sentiment: “I’m doing everything I can, but I often feel so helpless.

“Friends and family believe it could take years before there’s a return to any semblance of normalcy. Many are in dire need of basic necessities, like clean drinking water.

“Certain regions have been severely impacted but remain overlooked.”

In Brixton, volunteers have gathered to organize thousands of donated items from the community.

JN Bank, a Jamaican financial institution with London branches, has collaborated with the local charity Food for the Poor Jamaica to ensure that supplies reach the most affected areas and those in need.

Paulette Simpson, the deputy CEO, stated: “We are packing all essential relief items donated by compassionate individuals for shipment.

“We are in urgent need of as much support as possible.”

Individuals wishing to contribute or volunteer their time can reach out to I Support Jamaica, according to Ms. Simpson.