The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has pledged a US$100,000 donation to Jamaica to support relief and rebuilding efforts following the devastation caused by Category 5, Hurricane Melissa on Oct. 28.
CPL confirmed its support for the island’s plight via a recent media release, which said the contribution will be made through the Office of the Prime Minister in Jamaica, which will ensure “that the funds are distributed efficiently and directed to the areas where they are most urgently needed as communities begin the long process of recovery and reconstruction.”
Recognizing Jamaica’s vital role in Caribbean cricket and the CPL’s history, the league stands in solidarity with those affected. Many in the CPL family – from players and coaches to staff and fans – have deep ties to Jamaica, making this initiative especially meaningful, stated the CPL release.
To accompany the donation, CPL stated it will also be collaborating with former West Indies captain Chris Gayle to amplify Gayle’s own fundraising initiatives. The release stated that CPL will utilize its extensive network and global reach to raise awareness of the relief efforts and encourage supporters worldwide to lend their support as well.
“Seeing the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa has deeply affected us all. We hope this contribution offers some support to those rebuilding their lives. We encourage everyone across the world to donate what they can to help Jamaica recover,” said CPL CEO Pete Russell.
“We will be working with the Jamaican authorities, our sponsors and franchise teams to continue to see what more can be done to further support Jamaica over the coming months,” he said.
Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, expressed her gratitude to CPL for its gesture.
“Approximately 90,000 families in western Jamaica alone were directly affected by Hurricane Melissa, and we need every support to provide relief. So we’re very grateful for this contribution by the CPL towards the relief effort,” Grange said.
