AFJ Distributes J$150 Million to 52 Organisations at U.S. Embassy

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) distributed over J$150 million in funding, awarding 69 grants across education, healthcare, and economic development initiatives during its Annual Grant Ceremony at the United States Embassy in Kingston

Grant recipients and representatives gather for a group photograph at the 2026 AFJ Annual Grant Awards Ceremony

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) distributed over J$150 million (US$951,000) in grants to 52 organisations across the island, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic development. The awards were presented during the AFJ’s Annual Grant Ceremony at the United States Embassy in Kingston, where a total of 69 grants were issued.

Hosted by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Scott Renner, the event brought together government officials and members of the philanthropic community. AFJ Executive Director Caron Chung said the annual grant programme remains central to the organisation’s mission of supporting community-based development across Jamaica. “This ceremony reflects the heart of what we do,” Chung said. “Each of these organisations is an important role in improving lives and expanding opportunity, and we are proud to support their work.”

The grants are funded through AFJ’s annual fundraising galas in New York and Miami, along with support from private foundations, corporate partners, and individual donors. Since last year, the organisation has also raised over US$10 million for Hurricane Melissa relief and recovery efforts.

In his remarks, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Scott Renner noted that the United States Government contributed more than US$22 million in post-hurricane assistance, including humanitarian aid and emergency response support, highlighting AFJ’s efforts as a reflection of the strong partnership between both countries.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, the Honourable Floyd Green, who represented the Government of Jamaica, welcomed the scale and reach of this year’s grants. “The fact that you are distributing over J$145 million in grants is significant,” Green said. “When you look at the range of organisations being supported, you are touching almost every facet of Jamaican society.”

He also highlighted AFJ’s additional support to the agricultural sector, including J$80 million in grants to approximately 1,600 farmers in hurricane-affected communities.

“This ceremony reflects the heart of what we do. Each of these organisations is an important role in improving lives and expanding opportunity, and we are proud to support their work.”

Closing remarks came from Ambassador N. Nick Perry (ret.), newly appointed AFJ Board Director, who described the grants as an investment in Jamaica’s future, particularly for communities still recovering.

Grants were announced by Monica Ladd and Peta-Gay Pryce, with the ceremony featuring a performance by VoiceBox Performing Arts, founded by Tessanne Chin. A vote of thanks was delivered by scholarship recipient Kimone Martin, while AFJ confirmed its annual grant cycle opens each November, alongside ongoing donor-advised contributions.