Hard Rock raises $62 million for hurricane relief

The Hard Rock Heals Foundation, the charitable arm of Hard Rock International, has raised US$400,000 ($62.8 million) to support housing, infrastructure repairs and humanitarian assistance for Jamaica’s recovery from Hurricane Melissa.

The funds, generated through the “Stay Strong Jamaica” benefit concert on January 2 at Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, are being channelled through Jamaica’s Promise, a non-profit organisation that provides resources and support to local groups.

“With so many Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming team members from Jamaica – including more than 300 at our Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood property alone – this Hurricane Melissa relief effort was truly personal for us. From our team members to our guests, everyone came together with one goal: to help the people of Jamaica recover and rebuild,” said David Hoenemeyer, chief operating officer of Seminole Gaming.

Hoenemeyer made a ceremonial cheque presentation on behalf of the Hard Rock Heals Foundation to Chris Benjamin, Board Member and Director of Jamaica’s Promise, on March 20. He was joined by Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange Olivia and Oliver Mair, Jamaica’s Consul General to Miami, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood.

“Jamaica is deeply grateful to the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming and their team members and guests for their generosity and commitment to Jamaica’s recovery. This major contribution will make a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of Jamaicans who lost so much to Hurricane Melissa, and with partners like Hard Rock Heals Foundation standing with us, we know Jamaica will rebuild stronger than ever,” Grange said.

Chris Benjamin, a board member of Jamaica’s Promise, said the organisation was proud to partner with the Hard Rock Heals Foundation on the relief effort, adding that the funds “will be directed to national recovery initiatives through the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, helping to ensure timely and meaningful support reaches those most impacted by Hurricane Melissa. This collaboration reflects the power of partnership in helping communities rebuild and move forward.”