The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) has announced a generous donation of over $100 million (approximately US$650,000) to support various social projects and organizations in Jamaica this year.

The announcement was made the AFJ’s recent charity banquet in Miami, where businessmen, Lee Issa, Chairman of Couples Resort and Paul Issa, chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation were honoured for their contributions to nation-building. The Issas were celebrated for their work and commitment to Jamaica.

The event, held on April 5, marked another milestone in the AFJ’s ongoing efforts to assist local Jamaican groups in need. This year, some 79 grant applications were received and are reviewed through a stringent process.

Through its funding program, AFJ continues to have a significant influence on social development, healthcare, and early childhood education initiatives in Jamaica. In total, AFJ awarded US$740,000 in grants to 54 grantees, supporting several initiatives across the island. 

These initiatives include education, music, sports, healthcare, skills training, gender-based violence programs, arts, coding, veterinary care, environmental protection, school-feeding programs, and peace-building efforts, among others. Every year, AFJ organizes two major fundraisers annually in America to generate funds for Jamaican social initiatives. 

One is held in Miami in April or May, and the other in New York, usually in October. Proceeds from both those galas are combined to fund our discretionary grants program.

Founded in 1982, AFJ is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been instrumental in providing financial support to Jamaican charities, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic development.

At the AFJ’s awards ceremony held at the US Embassy in Kingston on April 8, certificates were presented to the grantees. Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Senator Dana Morris Dixon praised AFJ for its continued legacy of support saying, “For over four decades, the American Friends of Jamaica have remained a pillar of support for our country. Their legacy is etched into the walls of our hospitals, the classrooms of our schools, and the hearts of our people.” 

She further emphasized the importance of partnerships in the country’s development, stating, “We need partners like the AFJ who understand that sustainable development and transformation in education are built on trust, collaboration, and long-term investment.”