Chalien Dantes/Contributor

Sprint stars Asafa Powell and Noah Lyles are joining forces to support those hit hardest by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. 

The devastating category five storm tore through the Caribbean island in October, claiming at least 45 lives.

Powell, who helped Jamaica win Olympic gold in the 4x100m relay in 2016, lives in Kingston and has personally visited the hardest hit areas, offering hands-on assistance to families struggling to recover.

Lyles, the 2024 Paris Olympic 100m champion and four-time 200m world titleholder, admitted the scale of the disaster left him deeply moved. Rather than dwell on the destruction, he focused on how he could step in and make a difference.

For Powell, the partnership goes beyond sport. While their rivalry on the track once fueled national pride, it now serves a higher purpose, bringing Jamaica and the U.S. together in a time of need.

The sprinters’ efforts are already making tangible impacts. Powell recently handed over two homes to families who had lost everything. One household had four children, the other had three. The joy and relief were overwhelming, so much so that Powell and his wife were moved to tears alongside the families.

He is also urging larger organisations to maintain their support for Jamaica, stressing the need for long-term aid. Powell plans to continue his efforts monthly, determined to help families get back into safe homes and rebuild their lives.