Two-time 100m world record holder Asafa Powell has partnered with Olympic champion Noah Lyles to support communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
The category-five storm struck the island in October, claiming at least 28 lives and leaving widespread destruction. Powell, who lives in Kingston, has visited the hardest-hit areas to provide relief and offer direct assistance to displaced families.
“My heart was overwhelmed with sadness,” Powell told BBC World Service. “I tried not to focus on the devastation, but on how best I could assist. When you see mothers with young babies or people who haven’t showered for days, it will make you cry.”
Lyles, the 2024 Olympic 100m champion and four-time world 200m gold medallist, has joined Powell in the humanitarian effort. Powell said he is proud to see the traditional on-track rivalry between Jamaica and the United States fostering unity in a period of national hardship.
“We are trying to give back everywhere we can,” Powell said. “Last week, I gave two houses to families in need. They were very happy, and that made me feel overwhelmed with joy. My wife cried, and the families cried too.”
He added that both families — one with four children and another with three — now have stable homes after losing everything.
“These are the people who have supported me throughout my career. Giving something back makes me very proud and motivates me to do more.”
Powell also urged major organisations and donors to provide long-term support rather than withdrawing once media attention fades.
“I’m going to keep helping every month,” he said. “They should stay in it for the long run and ensure everyone gets back into their homes. There is so much happening in the world, but I hope for the best for my country.”
