Heartbroken Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Steps Up Relief Efforts After Hurricane Melissa’s ‘Total Destruction’ of Jamaica

Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is leading relief efforts in her country after the destruction left behind by Hurricane Melissa last month.

Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is spearheading a major relief initiative to support communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa, which struck the island late last month.

The retired Olympic champion, known as the "Pocket Rocket," has been on the ground in the hardest-hit parishes, using her Pocket Rocket Foundation to provide essential aid to families displaced by the catastrophic storm.

Hurricane Melissa made landfall on Jamaica's south coast on October 28, as a Category 5 storm, the most powerful ever to directly hit the island. With sustained winds of 185 mph (297 km/h), it caused widespread destruction, particularly in the St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland parishes.

The storm's impact has been immense, leaving over 500,000 residents without power and thousands homeless. In St. Elizabeth Parish alone, nearly 90 per cent of homes lost their roofs, and about 76 per cent of buildings were destroyed. The hurricane is responsible for 49 deaths across the Caribbean.

Jamaican Legend Reveals Extent of Hurricane Damage

Fraser-Pryce's foundation, established in 2013 to support young student-athletes, immediately mobilized to distribute food, clean water, and care packages. The three-time Olympic gold medalist personally toured the affected areas to assess the damage and listen to the needs of the residents.

“Every mickle mek a muckle,” Fraser-Pryce posted on Instagram, emphasizing that small, collective actions can lead to significant change. “For anyone who feels hopeless, hold on to this Jamaican proverb and do what you can.”

“To be honest, posts like this are never easy for me but I know it’s important to share what I’ve seen. I’ve spent a few days on the road across St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland. Many families have lost everything. There’s total destruction of homes and schools and some of our student athletes supported by the @sfppocketrocketfoundation are now living in shelters,” she added, revealing the damage left behind by the natural disaster.

The decorated sprinter then went into details over what she is doing to ensure those affected get help.

What is Fraser-Pryce Doing to Help Affected Families?

“Through the foundation our team and partners have been distributing food, water, and care packages to students and families in the hardest-hit areas,” said the five-time world champion.

“I’m so grateful for everyone who has come together to make this possible from Zyon’s school community, Ballaz Football Academy, First World Dental, Carimed, Grace Foods, Sanmerna, Ziggydchemical and many more!

“Recovery will take time, and it will take all of us. Over the coming weeks and months, we’ll continue to visit communities to help them rebuild with dignity and hope. If you can give click on the link in my bio to donate or volunteer your time. Every contribution helps us make a difference.”

Fraser-Pryce, who was born in Kingston's Waterhouse district, has always remained deeply connected to her home country. Her foundation provides scholarships covering tuition, books, and other expenses for high school athletes, helping hundreds of young Jamaicans balance their education and athletic ambitions.