Usain Bolt pledged J$10 million with Puma to help restore damaged schools across Jamaica

Last year, when Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica and left schools struggling with severe damage, Usain Bolt stepped in to help the communities that shaped his journey. The sprinting legend joined hands with longtime sponsor Puma to donate J$10 million towards rebuilding two high schools hit hard by the disaster. The contribution brought support to students and teachers facing damaged classrooms and disrupted school life. For Bolt, whose own story began in Jamaican schools and track programmes, the donation also reflects a long-running commitment to giving young people the chance to learn, compete and build a future.Usain Bolt and Puma donated J$10 million to two Jamaican schoolsBolt and Puma each directed J$5 million to St Elizabeth Technical High School, known as STETHS, and William Knibb Memorial High School in Trelawny, where Bolt studied. Both institutions suffered serious damage when Category 5 Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica in late October 2025.At STETHS in Santa Cruz, the damage included the complete loss of the roof on the Grade 11 block. The building plays a key role for students preparing for Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate exams. Other roofs, teachers' cottages, athletes' dormitories and parts of the perimeter wall also suffered damage. The school's spectator stands were left badly damaged as well.William Knibb Memorial High School reported damage to seven buildings, six of which were severely affected. Several structures lost their roofs, creating an urgent need for repairs before students could return to normal learning conditions.The donations aim to support recovery at both schools, helping restore spaces that matter to students, teachers and the wider communities. Rebuilding classrooms and other facilities is vital not only for everyday lessons but also for students preparing for important examinations and sporting events.Usain Bolt Foundation continues its investment in Jamaican youthThe latest contribution builds on Bolt's work through the Usain Bolt Foundation, which supports education, sport and youth development across Jamaica. The foundation has backed communities in rural parishes including Trelawny, St Elizabeth, St Ann, St James and Clarendon.Earlier in 2025, it provided J$6.1 million in cash and supplies to six rural high schools preparing for the ISSA Boys and Girls' Championships. William Knibb was among the beneficiaries.The foundation has also helped younger children by supplying printers, hygiene stations and learning materials to 21 early-childhood institutions across five parishes. The effort supported more than 1,200 children and their teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic.Bolt's relationship with Puma adds another layer to the relief effort. The brand signed him in 2003, when he was just 16, and the partnership grew alongside his rise to global fame. In 2021, he secured a lifetime deal with Puma, becoming the first track-and-field athlete to receive such an agreement.That long-standing connection now supports a cause beyond athletics. By joining forces to help rebuild damaged schools, Bolt and Puma are directing their influence towards communities facing a difficult recovery. For the students at STETHS and William Knibb, the donation offers practical help as they work towards returning to classrooms and rebuilding their school lives.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.