A local restaurant group has rallied to raise $3,000 for the Jamaican Hurricane Relief Fund during a special brunch last month.

MEF Ltd, also known as the Little Venice Group, raised the funds at the Fourways Inn on November 16 to assist the tens of thousands contending with the swathe of devastation cut across the island by Hurricane Melissa.

Melissa, one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record, carried winds of up to 185mph and stormed ashore in Jamaica on October 28.

Andy Detzer, the Fourways Inn general manager, said: “We felt compelled to do something to help after such terrible devastation.

“Our weekly Sunday brunch that features a different country from around the world was the perfect opportunity. Guests had a chance to sample some of Jamaica’s amazing cuisine while a percentage of sales that day went towards relief efforts.”

Customers enjoyed traditional brunch fare, in addition to Jamaican dishes such as coconut curried mussels, beef stew and sweet potato pudding.

A statement said: “Through a contribution of 10 per cent of food and beverage sales, along with optional guest tips, the event successfully raised $1,536.

“The Little Venice Group matched this amount, resulting in a total donation of $3,000 towards hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica.

“The donation was made to The American Friends of Jamaica Relief Fund, which has also pledged to match $1 million.”

• Visittheafj.orgfor more information about the relief fund