KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – IN a powerful display of solidarity, Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles and Jamaican sprint legend Asafa Powell have joined forces to deliver critical aid to communities in Jamaica ravaged by Hurricane Melissa.

The devastating Category 5 storm made landfall last Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction across St. Elizabeth and neighbouring parishes.

The relief initiative, centred in Georges Valley, St. Elizabeth, the hometown of Lyles’ fiancée, Junelle Bromfield, saw the duo and a team of volunteers help to distribute essential supplies like groceries and toiletries to residents whose lives have been upended.

The personal connection to the crisis was a driving force behind the effort. Bromfield, a former standout athlete at St. Elizabeth Technical High School, shared a heartfelt video explaining her motivation to “give back” to the community that supported her throughout her youth.

“The community was always helping me out, whether it was in high school to go to Penn Relays, they raised money, taking me to school for free. So I really wanted to give back,” Bromfield said, visibly moved after witnessing the widespread devastation.

The mission was officially launched by Noah Lyles via his X (formerly Twitter) account, where he announced the collaboration with Powell through his Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation.

“Hey, Everyone, the Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation and Asafa Powell are teaming up to send aid to smaller communities in Jamaica! We have already set a trip for St. Elizabeth,” Lyles stated.

But their work is far from over. Lyles extended a call to action, encouraging his followers and the public to contribute to the ongoing recovery efforts.

“Please help us raise money for our next trip to where we will be targeting areas in Westmorland and Trelawny. No amount is too Big Or Small. THANK YOU!”

Former record holder Powell, who lives in Jamaica, said he jumped at the opportunity to assist those in urgent need.

“There are people who are suffering right now, and as much as I can help, I will help. I am in a better position to help, and I see a lot of people helping, and I must give a big thanks to Noah and Junelle.”