The Weeknd is utilizing his platform to assist households in Jamaica who’re nonetheless attempting to get well after Hurricane Melissa tore via the island. His XO Humanitarian Fund is directing a serious contribution towards serving to communities that had been left struggling after the Category 5 storm. The singer dedicated $350,000 to the World Food Programme, and the group confirmed the funds will instantly assist their emergency operations throughout Jamaica.

Hurricane Melissa was labeled “The Storm of the Century” after it hit the island final month with winds reaching as much as 185 MPH. The influence was so widespread that your entire nation was declared a catastrophe space, and plenty of households misplaced entry to fundamental sources. With so many communities coping with huge harm and ongoing shortages, the WFP says The Weeknd’s donation comes at an important time.

According to the WFP, his contribution will assist present meals kits for as many as 200,000 individuals. These kits are designed to assist households who’ve restricted entry to provides and embody necessities like rice, lentils, vegetable oil, canned fish, and canned meat. The group famous that any such help is significant within the early levels of restoration, particularly in areas the place transportation routes and native markets are nonetheless disrupted.

The Weeknd has supported international humanitarian efforts for years, and this donation continues that sample. His XO Humanitarian Fund was created to present fast assist to communities coping with crises, and the scenario in Jamaica match that mission instantly.

Other artists with Jamaican roots have additionally stepped in. Sean Paul and Maxi Priest each contributed to reduction efforts as effectively, including to the rising group of public figures attempting to assist households rebuild. Together, these contributions will assist guarantee 1000’s of Jamaicans have regular entry to meals whereas restoration continues.