Monday 29 December 2014

KIND HEARTS LTD BUILDS NEW WINE BASIC SCHOOL - The Gleaner - December 29, 2014

Students of the New Wine Basic School say 'Thank You' in their special way to Kind Hearts Ltd, Food For The Poor and the volunteers who helped to construct the school. (Contributed Photos)

It's three down and two to go for Kind Hearts Limited. The non-profit organisation, run by young adults dedicated to giving back to communities within Jamaica, embarked on the ambitious mission to build five basic schools in five years, in observation of Jamaica's 50th anniversary which was celebrated in 2012. The latest school to be constructed in the 'drive for five' was the New Wine Basic School in Snow Hill, Portland (about 30 minutes from the popular San San). Chair of Kind Hearts, Christina Lechler, said there were 19 volunteers working alongside a team of 10 Food For The Poor workers.

"Our volunteers were the members of Kind Hearts, friends and some students of Hillel Academy, who will receive community service hours for their participation," she said. "We had a great team who worked tirelessly and we were able to complete the school in two days. On the third day, we had the handover/opening ceremony, where students and members of the community performed for us and took possession of the school."

PROJECT COST

The school cost approximately US$57,000 to build. The work consisted of three classrooms, principal's office, sickbay, kitchen, bathroom, playground and fencing. Additional cost of execution (including meals, accommodation and transport) totalled US$ 2,000.

"We would like to thank Food For The Poor; without their organisation and team we would not be able to accomplish such a great feat in such a small time," said Lechler. "Their team is hardworking and professional, amazing at what they do. We would like to thank everyone who helped us achieve this dream by making donations, whether large or small. The other volunteers were Amanda Lechler, Timothy Stewart, James Lechler, Richard Lechler, Jacqueline Lechler, Nikolas Hudson, Shannon Boorman, Adam Vaz, Sarah Misir, Akiode Odunton, Adam Ziadie, Tayla Ziadie, Zacre Davidson, Kiy Graham, Max Murphy, Sofia Asher and John Paul Asher.

Lechler said she hoped persons would see that they are truly trying to make a difference and continue to donate towards the Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation, created by her grandparents.

In September 2013, Kind Hearts Ltd built a basic school in Top Hill, St Catherine. Before that, they constructed a school in Greenvale, Manchester, in association with Food For The Poor. Kind Hearts was started in 2009, with the building of two homes for two needy families in St James.

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20141229/news/news1.html

Volunteers take a break during the construction of the New Wine Basic School in Snow Hill, Portland.

Thursday 25 December 2014

130 RESIDENTS OF ST CATHERINE INFIRMARY TREATED BY WISYNCO & FFP - News Release - December 24, 2014

FEEDING THE NEEDY: Marsha Burrell (center), Relief & Marketing Manager at Food For The Poor Jamaica assists with sharing lunch for the residents of the St Catherine Infirmary along with Mark Brown (left), Production Superintendent and Sandre Lowers, Purchasing Assistant at Wisynco Group Limited. (PHOTO: AINSWORTH MORRIS)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kingston, Jamaica – December 24, 2014: It was a joyous occasion on December 20 when members of Food For The Poor (FFP) and Wisynco Group Limited visited 130 residents of the St Catherine Infirmary and treated them to a wholesome meal and other necessities for the festive season.

The residents enjoyed ham, chicken and fish with rice, and our traditional Christmas sorrel drink, and also received gifts of drinks and packaged items produced locally by Wisynco Group.

Devon Reynolds, Director of Manufacturing at Wisynco, who participated in the treat, shared: “During the festive season, we at Wisynco believe it is our time to give back to our nation. The treat for the residents, who are mostly elderly, has a two-way benefit. We get to see what is happening with other people who are in need and assist them, and in return, this makes us more compassionate towards others, be more grateful for our blessings in life and be reminded that, unlike some of them, we have good health and much to be thankful for,” Reynolds said during an interview at the treat.

He further stated, “We really wanted the residents to feel a little part of humanity. We want them to feel that people still care about them. We wanted them to feel a little bit of joy. From speaking with some of them, they feel good to know that people still care about them.”
Also assisting with the treat was Marsha Burrell, Relief and Marketing Manager, FFP Jamaica.

Burrell said she was pleased to see the delighted expressions on the faces of the residents and observed that their spirits were lifted after they were fed.

“One of our mandates at Food For the poor is ‘Changing Lives and Restoring Families.’ Through partnering with Wisynco to host this treat, is one way in which we have provided change and restoration,” Burrell said.

“We are very serious about partnering with local companies in making Jamaica a better place. For 2015, we hope to conduct more partnerships with members of the private sector, as we have for this treat, and work together in assisting Jamaicans who are in dire need,” she added.

Matron Keisha Miller-Wain, who is responsible for the overall operation of the infirmary, said she was extremely grateful that the two organisations thought of partnering and hosting the treat.

“There is no one way to say how I feel about this initiative. I feel grateful because in a season like this, some of our residents probably don’t have any relatives or anyone to care for them, so to have Wisynco and Food For The Poor come in and treat them for a day, is wonderful,” Miller-Wain said.

For more information, please contact:
Ainsworth Morris, PROComm, Tel: 926-6740 or 3756136


St Catherine Infirmary (PHOTOS: AINSWORTH MORRIS)

The cake which was shared among the residents at St Catherine Infirmary during the treat.

The lovely ham that was prepared for the residents at St Catherine Infirmary.


Volunteers from Wisynco and Food For The Poor sharing lunch for the residents at St Catherine Infirmary during the treat.




Fish served to the residents during the treat.

Tuesday 23 December 2014

FOOD FOR THE POOR FREES 29 PRISONERS FOR CHRISTMAS - News Release - December 23, 2014

THANK YOU, MR. MAIR: David Mair (left), Executive Director, Food For The Poor Jamaica, presents one of the 17 inmates from the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre, with a relief package courtesy of the charity organization. (PHOTO: PETRI-ANN HENRY)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOOD FOR THE POOR FREES 29 PRISONERS FOR CHRISTMAS

KINGSTON, Jamaica (December 23, 2014) – Food For The Poor has paid the fines of 29 nonviolent prisoners in Jamaica, who committed nonviolent offenses in time to spend Christmas with their families. The nonviolent prisoners were incarcerated due to their inability to pay required fines.


The first 17 inmates were released at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre on World Human Rights Day, which is commemorated on December 10.

The other prison releases occurred December 11-18 at Central and Half-Way-Tree Police Stations, and the Tower Street and Fort Augusta Adult Correctional Centres.

Prior to these releases, assessments were conducted of inmates at the facilities. Some with fines paid for the nonviolent offenses, included traffic offenses and larceny.

According to Mr. David Mair, Executive Director, FFP Jamaica, the mandate of FFP is not only to serve the poor with food, houses and other material gifts, but to reunite families and promote peace and prosperity, especially during the seasons of Christmas and Easter.

“This is an annual event that Food For The Poor prides itself on doing,” said Mr. Mair. “Each year, we give non-violent offenders, who are sometimes unable to pay simple fines, a second chance to be reunited with their families and loved ones for Christmas.

“Releasing prisoners to be with their families during the season of Christmas is a life-changing aspect of what we do,” said Mr. Mair.

Mr. Mair further stated that the inmates should be thankful to FFP’s donors whose contributions made their release possible, in addition to FFP’s prison ministry team.

In response to FFP’s gesture towards the inmates, Mrs. Ina Fairweather, Commissioner of Corrections in Jamaica, said “This is a golden opportunity for the inmates. This occasion is in keeping with the Christmas season – the season of giving.”

She further stated, “On behalf of the Department of Corrections, we thank Food For The Poor for this kind gesture and pray that the team will be strengthened daily in transforming lives and restoring hope to the less fortunate.”

Present at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre during the first prison release was Mr. Matondo Mukulu, Acting Public Defender, who said in his address that FFP could not have chosen a better day than World Human Rights Day, to start their prison release programme for the festive season.

During his address he told the inmates that they should show kindness, be respectful toward others and grant favours in accordance with what FFP has done for them.

“Beyond going through these gates, remember that this country belongs to you and demands that you respect the person next to you. Respect the next person’s views. Food For The Poor did not judge you based on your offenses. Instead, they looked and said you deserved to be with your family. It is now your duty to extend that same respect to others,” Mukulu said.

FFP conducts prison releases twice each year, once during the season of Easter and the other at Christmas. In addition to paying their fines, FFP provides the inmates with lunch for the day, cash for transportation to go home and a gift package containing toiletries. The programme is sustained through continued financial support from donors located in the United States.

-end-

For more information, please contact:
Ainsworth Morris, PROComm, Tel: 926-6740 or 3756136


http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Food-For-The-Poor-frees-29-prisoners-for-Christmas


GET READY TO GO! Food For The Poor’s (FFP) Prison Ministry Coordinator, Sandra Ramsey (right), tells a prisoner to ready himself as his fine was paid by FFP and he will be released from the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre. (PHOTOS: PETRI-ANN HENRY)

YOU’RE FREE TO GO! Sandra Ramsey, Prison Ministry’s Coordinator at Food For The Poor Jamaica, shakes the hand of one of two inmates who were released from police on December 11 after Food For The Poor paid their fines.

YOU’RE FREE! Food For The Poor’s Prison Ministry Coordinator, Sandra Ramsey (right), is all smiles as she tells one inmate at St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre that Food For The Poor will pay his fines on December 10.

Wednesday 17 December 2014

Keep Your Head Up, FĂȘted State Ward Tells Depressed Kids - The Gleaner - December 17, 2014

David Mair, executive director of Food For the Poor (FFP), and Marcia Hall-Walker, FFP social outreach manager, hand out gifts to children at the organisation's annual Christmas treat for approximately 500 wards and caregivers from 24 children's homes in Jamaica on the lawns of East King's House in St Andrew yesterday.-Rudolph Brown/Photographer

Jodi-Ann Gilpin, Gleaner Writer

Food, gifts, and fellowship combined, to ensure that the hundreds of underprivileged children who turned out at Food For the Poor's annual Christmas treat, on the lawns of King's House in St Andrew, were not disappointed.


The treat, which catered to more than 500 wards of the State from 24 children's homes across the island, left a smile on the face of Simone.

Simone, who was among the hundreds of children who were treated, said she was reminded to be thankful for the small things.

"I could have been a rape victim. I could have been left to the dangers of the world, but I am here today to receive a gift for my Christmas and I am eternally grateful. I might not be living with my family right now, but there are always people who remember us (children of the State), so I am not the worst," the 16-year-old told The Gleaner.

"I'm enjoying the morning (yesterday) so far. The sandwiches were very good, and I would encourage other children who might feel depressed during the Christmas season to keep their head up because the situation could have been worse," she said.

Diane Henry, caregiver at the Elsie Bernard Girls' Home in Meadowbrook, St Andrew, said she was always grateful to persons who catered to the less fortunate.

"These children encounter a lot of challenges on a daily basis, and whenever we get the chance to take them out, it is always a joy. Nobody wants to be lonely during this time and a simple hug will go a far way," she declared.

"It's good to know that somebody still cares and no matter how tough times get, there is always someone who will contribute to our girls having a merry Christmas," she said.

St Joseph's residents treated

In the meantime, the more than 60 residents at the St Joseph's Golden Age Home in Kingston were treated by the Jamaica National (JN) group in partnership with Appliance Traders Limited (ATL) Group.

The home received a brand-new, well-needed stove and fridge

Annmarie Kirlew-Williams, corporate communications officer at JN, said it was a joy to give back.

"There are 64 residents in the cluster, so it gets very difficult sometimes to cater to their needs effectively, so we decided to partner with ATL in donating these appliances," she said.

"There will always be challenges, but we are reminded of our motto, 'we'll help you find a way,' Williams said.

Delfreda Cammock Thorpe, operations manager at the home, said the gifts were a dream come true.

"We appreciate the gifts that we received today because we could not have afforded these appliances otherwise. They (elders) are having a great time, and I am sure this has contributed to them having a merry Christmas," he said.

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20141217/lead/lead23.html

Tuesday 16 December 2014

FOOD FOR THE POOR FETES CHILDREN AT KING'S HOUSE - The Gleaner - December 16, 2014

Food For The Poor Jamaica (FFP) will continue its year-round mission of helping the underprivileged by treating children and their caregivers with a Christmas party today at King's House in St Andrew.

One of Jamaica's most visible charity organisations, FFP, through its 'Angels of Hope' programme, will extend its giving to the less fortunate by hosting a Christmas-themed event on the lawns of King's House.

Angels of Hope has been tasked with ensuring children placed in various homes enjoy a treat each year during the festive season.

The party, which is expected to start at 10 a.m., will also extend invitations to those tasked with overseeing the welfare of the children who are placed in the homes.

Throughout the year, the charity gives, among other items, food, clothing, medical and educational supplies and furniture to various children who are staying at the 24 children's homes across the country.

FFP has in recent weeks staged various events aimed at giving back to the community. Most recently the charity, along with the Salvation Army, handed out food and other items to persons from Emmet Park and surrounding communities in Kingston.

FFP's operation in Jamaica began in 1982 with the aim of assisting the poor.

Those wishing to donate time, money or items can contact the Food For the Poor at 984-5005.

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20141216/lead/lead62.html

Monday 15 December 2014

BLESSING OF A NEW PASTORAL CENTRE AT AMU - The Catholic Opinion - December 14, 2014

On November 2, 2014, the community of African Martyrs of Uganda (AMU) Church in Bull Bay celebrated the blessing of their new pastoral centre by the Archbishop of Kingston, Charles H Dufour.

Also present were Fr Stephen Keusenkothen, pastor of St Benedict the Moor Catholic Church and African Martyrs of Uganda Church; Deacon Len Laidlaw; representatives of Food For The Poor; the St Benedict the Moor Marching Band, and other members of St Benedict the Moor Church.

This new pastoral centre was the result of months of concerted effort on the part of Deacon Peter Espeut, Archbishop Dufour, and Food For The Poor. It involved the rehabilitation of the old caretaker's house that was present on the property.

The new pastoral centre includes a new fully equipped kitchen, a new computer centre, and a library, as well as office, meeting and storage spaces.

It is hoped that the opening of the new pastoral centre will mark a new era of growth for the African Martyrs community, as well as new opportunities to serve the larger community.

HOMEWORK CENTRE A REALITY! - The Catholic Opinion - December 14, 2014

One evening, I was walking around the property of St Theresa's Catholic Church in Annotto Bay soon after I was appointed as the pastor in 2011. I discovered that some school children were sitting on our church corridor doing their homework. I spoke to them for a while and realised that they needed a convenient place to do their homework.

I always believed that education was the only way that our children could empower themselves to fight poverty. I, therefore, decided to build a homework centre: a place where the kids could go, after school, and have internet access, as well as volunteer teachers from our parish to assist them with their school work.

I approached Food For The Poor through our Archbishop, the Most Reverend Charles Dufour. Thanks to his blessing and Food For The Poor's generosity, St Theresa's Catholic Church now has a facility to assist the school children of the entire community of Annotto Bay and its environs. Our sincere appreciation to our Archbishop and Food For The Poor for making this dream a reality!

FOOD FOR THE POOR WANTS TO BUILD MORE BASIC SCHOOLS - Loop - December 12, 2014


Having committed to build 50 basic schools for Jamaica as a Jamaica 50 gift, Food for the Poor has told the government they want to build more of those facilities for the nation’s children.

“They promised us 50 infant schools in five years as an independence gift and they have done 49 in two and a half years. They have asked if they could do more because there is so much interest by people abroad in early childhood education,” said Education Minister Ronald Thwaites.

There are approximately 2,600 early childhood institutions on the island and Thwaites said only 1,000 have the resources to support themselves.

He said that the others have been operating on fees from parents and the benevolence of others.

Thwaites said 200 substandard early childhood institutions were last year merged with infant departments in primary schools.

He said a further 156 schools have been identified for merging, and that the ministry is targeting 300 schools this year.

There are over 220 primary schools with less than 100 students and that the average size of a primary school is 260.

“The plan is to merge as many of these institutions so that we can offer quality teachers to those children,” the minister said.

Only 30 per cent of early childhood education teachers have any training.

“We need to consolidate our early childhood institutions into centres of excellence,” the minister said.

He said 30 per cent of students from early childhood institutions are deemed not ready for primary education every year.

Loop News Service

http://loopjamaica.com/2014/12/12/latest-jamaica-news-community-food-for-the-poor-wants-to-build-more-basic-schools/

Friday 12 December 2014

FOOD FOR THE POOR BRINGS CHRISTMAS CHEER TO RESIDENTS OF GOLDEN AGE HOME - News Release - December 12, 2014

THANK YOU, FFP: David Mair (center), Executive Director, Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, accepting a plaque from Morelene Moncrieffe (right), Supervisor of Cluster D at the Golden Age Home on December 9 after the charity organisation hosted a Christmas treat at the Home. Sharing in the moment is Marcia Hall-Walker, Social Outreach Manager, FFP and Sharon Bowley (background), Supervisor of Cluster G.

NEWS RELEASE

Kingston, Jamaica – December 12, 2014: A joyful and memorable time was had by approximately 200 residents and caregivers from the Golden Age Home in Kingston, who were treated on December 9 to a day of lively entertainment, food and gift packages courtesy of Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica.


The Christmas treat catered to the three Food For The Poor sponsored clusters D, B and G, which house residents who are severely challenged, both mentally and physically, and seniors with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.

In explaining the purpose of the event, FFP’s Social Outreach Manager, Marcia Hall-Walker said, “Over the years, Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica has continued to support the Golden Age Home in various ways through the provision of food, clothing, furniture and medical items. Today’s event is an extension of what we do throughout the year where FFP staff members come in and feed and spend some time with the residents here at the Home.”

She further explained that, “this is just one of the many treats that FFP organizes each year to show the most vulnerable in our society that we care and that we’ll always be here for them… This is what Christmas is all about…spreading the love and giving hope to many who are dispossessed and often times forgotten.”

Morelene Moncrieffe, Supervisor of Cluster D for the past seven years, was happy to see the team of volunteers and staff members from Food For The Poor who showed up to treat her “babies”, the 50 residents, 39 females and 11 males.

“These are my babies and it was a joy to see the smiles on their faces when the team showed up today… They are very appreciative and look forward to this event every year. Those who cannot literally say thanks with their lips, express gratitude with their limbs. These residents hardly get visitors. A few church groups come in but hardly any family members, so they anticipate this event. As far as they are concerned, you have adopted them…you are like their mothers.”

Food For The Poor Brings Christmas Cheer to Residents of Golden Age Home

Ms. Moncrieffe continued, “Words cannot express the joy it brings to our hearts to see our residents so happy. What I like about Food For The Poor is that this is not a one off gesture, they support us in many ways throughout the years. For example, our Physiotherapy room was constructed by Food For The Poor and they ensure that we have a physiotherapist to cater to the residents. Our recreational area was outfitted with furniture thanks to them. Our bed linens and medical items come from Food For The Poor…and I could go on and on. They have adopted us and have spread the love across this institution and this is greatly appreciated.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by one of the Supervisors for Cluster G, Vinette Palmer, who oversees a total of 69 residents, 43 males and 26 females.

Palmer said, “Out of these 69 residents, I don’t think 20 of them get visitors. This treat gives them a sense of belonging and cause them to remember that there are people out there who care for them. The truth is, we don’t have enough caregivers to give the kind of individual attention they are receiving today from the Food For The Poor team. I see this as part of a healing process for the residents and we are grateful because it also acts as a motivation for those of us who take care of them daily. Food For The Poor is actually filling a gap that we could not fill financially.”

One senior from Cluster D, 65-year-old Joan Byfield, who has been a resident of the Golden Age Home for the past 12 years, was happy to express her gratitude for the Christmas treat.

Byfield said, “I am very much appreciative of this and I always recommend Food For The Poor to people because I have known about the organization for a very long time. It is a good company and I know the other residents are happy for the food, company and gifts… I love you,”

Just last Thursday, December 4, over 2500 needy Jamaicans were treated at Emmet Park by FFP, in partnership with the Salvation Army. Some 800 children from Food For The Poor supported Children’s Homes across the island will also benefit from a Christmas Treat slated to be held at King’s House on December 16.

-end-

For more information, please contact:
Ainsworth Morris, PROComm, Tel: 926-6740 or 3756136


http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Food-For-The-Poor-brightens-Golden-Age-Home

http://loopjamaica.com/2014/12/13/latest-jamaica-news-community-food-for-the-poor-brings-christmas-cheer-to-golden-age-residents/

FEEDING THE NEEDY: Marcia Hall-Walker, Social Outreach Manager, Food For The Poor Jamaica, gladly feeds a resident of the Golden Age Home located in Kingston, during the charity organisation’s Christmas Treat at the Home on December 9.

GIFT FOR CAREGIVER: David Mair (right), Executive Director, Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, presents a Christmas gift to a caregiver at the Golden Age Home during the charity organisation’s Christmas treat. Also sharing in the moment is Marcia Hall-Walker, Social Outreach Manager, FFP. The treat was held on December 9.

LET ME HELP YOU WITH THAT: Marsha Burrell (left), Marketing and Relief Development Manager, Food For The Poor Jamaica, assists a resident of Cluster D at the Golden Age Home in Kingston during the charity organisation’s Christmas treat on December 9.

DEVOTIONS AT GOLDEN AGE: Staff members and volunteers of Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica during a devotional session at they hosted with residents of the Golden Age Home on December 9 during their Christmas treat.

SPREADING THE CHRISTMAS CHEER: Marlon Samuels (right), Director of Construction Services at Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, warmly greets a senior resident of the Golden Age Home in Kingston during the charity organisation’s annual Christmas treat on December 9. Sharing in the moment is Lorene Campbell (left), Customer Service Representative, FFP.

Monday 8 December 2014

OVER 2,000 TREATED TO MEALS, GIFTS - Jamaica Observer - December 7, 2014

David Mair (left), Executive Director of Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, speaks with Raymond Collington (centre), an amputee from the Golden Age Home, after he was given a meal, a relief package and a gift at Emmet Park, downtown Kingston on December 4 at the annual Christmas Treat hosted by FFP in association with the Salvation Army. Collington was among 2,000 needy Jamaicans who were treated. Sharing in the moment is Marsha Burrell, relief development manager, FFP Jamaica. (PHOTO: AINSWORTH MORRIS)

Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, in partnership with The Salvation Army, treated 2,000 needy Jamaicans to a hot meal, relief packages and Christmas gifts at their annual Christmas treat which was held at Emmet Park, downtown Kingston last Thursday.

The treat was part of the two charity organisations' annual mandate to help the poor and renew the poor in spirit during the season of Christmas.

According to David Mair, executive director of FFP Jamaica, this gesture helps to restore hope to many who are dispossessed, replaces sadness with happiness during the festive season, and provides a sense of belonging to the poor.

"The turnout today is the most so far since we have been partnering with the Salvation Army to host this annual Christmas treat. Food For The Poor is happy to be able to help Jamaicans who are homeless, needy, senior citizens, and disabled from homes across Jamaica," Mair said.

Mair said that FFP would be hosting other treats this month for other needy Jamaicans, such as one for children slated to be held at King's House on December 16.

FFP closed its offices and brought all their staff members to Emmet Park on the grounds of St george's College to help with the treat.

Selbourne Oates, representative of the Salvation Army, expressed his happiness that FFP had decided to partner with them again to host the event.

"We are happy to have been able to put a smile on the faces of needy individuals at least for a day during this festive season."

At the end of the event, each person was presented with a gift package courtesy of both charity organisations.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Over-2-000-treated-to-meals--gifts_18070542

BICKNELL, FOOD FOR THE POOR TURN WOMAN'S DREAM INTO REALITY - Jamaica Observer - December 7, 2014

Joan Campbell, along with members of her family, and friends share the happy occasion. (PHOTO: HURBUN WILLIAMS)

OLYMPIC GARDENS' RESIDENT HAPPY AFTER RECEIVING SOLAR-POWERED TWO-BEDROOM STRUCTURE
BY HURBUN WILLIAMS Observer writer

At a time when the majority of Jamaicans are finding it difficult to put food on their tables let alone find somewhere to live, a destitute Olympic Gardens family has found salvation.


The family has been given a two-bedroom house with modern amenities, including a solar-energy facility.

Food For The Poor provided housing that was initiated through the instrumentality of Tank-Weld Metals' director, Bruce Bicknell.

A fierce innovator in the Olympic Gardens area, Bicknell played a pivotal role in the community receiving its 20th Food For The Poor wooden unit which features a concrete base.

On receiving the keys to her new and accommodating house, a relieved recipient, Joan Campbell, 56, who for the past 23 years had been squatting in abject squalor in an undesirable and unprotected wooden shack, became contrite and tearful.

In a moment of realisation that the agony of self-doubt has ended, she fell on her knees with hands raised in thankful prayer to Food For The Poor executive director David Mair and Bicknell for the gift, alleviating her suffering by taking her family of eight and herself off an unhealthy, moisture-laden dirt floor.

Tank-Weld Metals, which continues to do more than its bit in community building in the Olympic Gardens area and beyond, was approached by Campbell through Bicknell for "a little assistance" to help improve her living condition.

It was a time when she was at the end of her tether to cope with her growing children who were beginning to find living under the prevailing conditions much too difficult without getting in one another's way.

Bicknell promised to investigate before volunteering his company's assistance. When he did he was shocked and moved by the existing condition that he encountered at Campbell's previous abode. He took the decision that his company would seek help.

Joan was at the time squatting on a parcel of land for which she had no title.

In a moment of crisis with no close relatives to turn to and no settled place of abode to house her children, Joan sought assistance and was granted the spot where her new house now stands, by the then councillor for the division. Joan was allowed to occupy the spot on humanitarian grounds 23 years ago -- situated on the gully side of Balcombe Drive in the Kingston 20 area. Her housing situation became critical after her husband was killed and she was put out on the street.

Getting the land was a big step in Joan's life. She was however, hamstrung. Pregnant and destitute at the time, she needed material to construct a shelter of sorts. Her search and cry for help fell on deaf ears. In a moment of desperation with no help in sight, Campbell turned to Father Richard Albert, then Rector of St Patrick's Church in the community, for assistance.

Campbell told the Jamaica Observer that she was given enough board with which she managed to construct one-room on the parcel of land that she could occupy without a title of ownership. This was before Bicknell and his company stepped in and

regularised the situation by buying the land for Joan and presented her with the title.

Tank-Weld Metals then presented the title to Joan so that Food For The Poor could

begin legal construction of the two-bedroom unit.

Now, having a place to rest her head at night, Campbell said that despite her best efforts she was never in a position to improve much on what she started with.

"As time went on," Joan moaned, "things got progressively worse until Mr Bicknell decided to step in and help mi."

Wanting to contribute to a worthy cause as he has been doing for a number of years, Bicknell sought to make the building on legal land so as to provide Joan with her housing solution. The best was yet to come.

Bicknell's next step was to approach Food For The Poor to assist Joan in her quest. Some two weeks after Bicknell's initiative, workmen from Food For The Poor visited the site and took measurements to erect a building. Two weeks later, workmen returned to cast the concrete foundation upon which to build the two-bedroom wooden unit. One month had passed before workmen returned to erect the wooden structure in one day.

"Since then, for the first time in mi life mi know what comfort means. Now mi have continuous water supply fi the first time, as with the house come mi get a 100-gallon plastic drum, a kitchen sink with cupboard and a dish drainer fi wash and set the things to drain. Now mi have solar lighting, mi no have fi pay light bill; a two-door refrigerator; a table-top four-burner stove to provide meals along with toilet and bath with a face basin," a smiling Joan related.

The building and part furnishing of the two-bedroom dwelling is only one of the hundreds of these houses that are being built islandwide in Jamaica each year by the award-winning Food For The Poor - the largest non-profit organisation in America.

Mair, the local executive director of operations in Jamaica, performed the handing over ceremony recently with initiator and contributor to the project Bruce Bicknell present.

Mair explained that all donors for projects such as these are in America. The projects are run by the president, Robin Mahfood.

"Jamaica gets all the money from that office to build not only houses but also schools: one hundred houses are being built per month now, but that is not all. Food For The Poor to date has also built 50 schools. This undertaking is not performed in one area only but is spread throughout the length and breadth of Jamaica," Mair pointed out.

Mair went on to explain that apart from building 1200 houses last year, the mission of Food For The Poor "is not only to feed the poor but also to feed, clothe and home the poor".

No sooner than Food For The Poor finished completing the housing solution to accommodate Joan Campbell and her siblings, the organisation was once again called upon to help replace another eight houses that were destroyed by fire on the evening of Monday,

November 17. The burnt-out houses are adjacent to the Tank-Weld Metals main offices on Seaward Drive -- a short distance from where Campbell's newly constructed house for her family of eight is situated.

Five of the eight houses earmarked for rebuilding by Food For The Poor that were recently destroyed by fire were also burnt down in 2006 and were rebuilt by Food For The Poor.

While the homeless are waiting for their homes to be rebuilt, Food For The Poor and Tank-Weld have joined forces in providing school, food, clothing and books for some 24 adults and children. The organisations have also provided trucks and hardware materials to expedite clean-up.

The Tank-Weld director, who is instrumental in taking care of the needs of the sufferers, praised Food For The Poor for its speedy response to the affected, saying: "Food For The Poor has been a saviour by coming to build back the homes that were destroyed by fire."

Tank-Weld director Bruce Bicknell makes a point to Food For The Poor executive director David Mair at the handing over ceremony. (PHOTO: HURBUN WILLIAMS)



Saturday 6 December 2014

FOOD FOR THE POOR STAGES ITS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREAT - The Gleaner - December 6, 2014

Food For The Poor in collaboration with the Salvation Army provides packages to individuals at their annual Christmas Treat held at Emmet Park in Kingston. (PHOTOGRAPHER: RICARDO MAKYN)

Alessandro Boyd, Gleaner Writer

A total of 2,500 homeless and less fortunate individuals left Emmet Park in Kingston on Thursday with smiles on their faces following the annual Christmas treat that was held by Food For The Poor in collaboration with the Salvation Army.

David Mair, executive director of Food For The Poor, said that since the inception of the treat 27 years ago, this year saw the biggest turnout so far.

"This is an annual feeding event that we do in collaboration with the Salvation Army. We do this every year, and what we do is bring the people in from the streets and give them food, among many other items," he told The Gleaner.

'GIVING TIME'

"You can imagine how grateful they are. I mean, they are getting, food, drinks, and entertainment. This is part of the giving back for us and embracing the festive season. It's really a giving time for everybody," Mair added.

Audrey Brown, a 77-year-old woman who was attending the treat for the first time, expressed gratitude for what she received at the treat.

"It was good because it was the first time I'm coming here and I really enjoyed myself. I enjoyed the food, the music, just everything. I heard about it from a friend who invited me and told me to get a ticket," she said.

Major Selbourne Oates, administrator at the William Chamberlain Centre run by the Salvation Army in Kingston also commended everyone who came together to make the event a success.

"I think that overall, this is a very good venture. When you look at what it is and the effect that it is having on these senior citizens, it makes you smile. When you plan for a group of this nature, this magnitude, it takes a lot, and to see it bearing fruit is a wonder," he said.

alessandro.boyd@gleanerjm

Friday 5 December 2014

FFP & SALVATION ARMY TREAT 2,000 NEEDY JAMAICANS - December 5, 2014 - News Release

ENJOY YOUR MEAL: David Mair (left), Executive Director of Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, speaking with Raymond Collington (center), an amputee from the Golden Age Home, after he was given a meal, a relief package and a gift at Emmet Park in Downtown Kingston on December 4 at the annual Christmas Treat hosted by FFP in association with the Salvation Army. Collington was among 2,000 needy Jamaicans who were treated. Sharing in the moment is Marsha Burrell, Relief Development Manager, FFP Jamaica. (PHOTO: AINSWORTH MORRIS)

NEWS RELEASE

Kingston, Jamaica – December 5, 2014: Food For The Poor (FFP) Jamaica, in partnership with the Salvation Army, treated 2,000 needy Jamaicans to a hot meal, relief packages and Christmas gifts at their annual Christmas treat which was held at Emmet Park in Downtown Kingston on December 4.


The treat was part of the two charity organisations’ annual mandate to help the poor and renew the poor in spirit during the season of Christmas.

According to David Mair, Executive Director of FFP Jamaica, this gesture helps to restore hope to many who are dispossessed, replaces sadness with happiness during the festive season and provides a sense of belonging to the poor.
“The turn-out today is the most so far since we have been partnering with the Salvation Army to host this annual Christmas treat. Food For The Poor is happy to be able to help Jamaicans who are homeless, needy, senior citizens and disabled from homes across Jamaica,” Mr. Mair said.
Mr. Mair said FFP would be hosting other treats this month for other needy Jamaicans, such as one for children slated to be held at King’s House on December 16.

FFP closed their offices operations and brought all their staff members to Emmet Park to help with the treat.
Selbourne Oates, representative of the Salvation Army, expressed his happiness that FFP had decided to partner with them again to host the event.
“We are happy to have been able to put a smile on the faces of needy individuals at least for a day during this festive season.”
At the end of the event, each person was presented with a gift package courtesy of both charity organisations.

-end-

For more information, please contact:
Ainsworth Morris, PROComm, Tel: 926-6740 or 3756136

TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING - The Gleaner - December 5, 2014


David Mair, Executive Director of Food For The Poor, hands a blanket to 57-year-old Antony Morris at the Food For The Poor & Salvation Army Annual Christmas Treat. The treat was held yesterday at St George's College for approximately 2,000 persons from in and around the Downtown, Kingston area.

Wednesday 3 December 2014

A HOME AND TWO TREES - Jamaica Observer - December 3, 2014

Young Trevoghne Grossett was more than happy to be included in the process of planting trees. (PHOTO: PETRI-ANN HENRY)

BY AINSWORTH MORRIS
Observer writer

Food For The Poor (FFP) has been building houses and schools for needy families and organisations for much of the last decade. As of next year, it will be adding a layer of sustainability to that effort by including two fruit trees with each building it hands over.


In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer, Selena Ledgister-Kellier, Agriculture and Fishing Manager at FFP Jamaica, explained that the new direction is an extension of a fruit tree distribution project the charity organisation launched in 2013.

"Although it is widely known that tree planting is good for the environment and will help with soil conservation, we at Food For The Poor believe planting trees when we donate houses or schools will provide nourishing fruits for families and students who will either live in the houses or attend the schools," Ledgister-Kellier said.

She added: "The fruit trees will help to feed people whether it is from breadfruit trees, mango trees, etc. It is also a form of income generation for the recipients, as they can reap economic benefits once the trees start bearing."

According to David Mair, Executive Director of FFP Jamaica, the fruit tree distribution drive started at Richmond Farm Adult Correctional Centre in St Mary, and is the place where the trees to be donated in 2015 were planted.

"A 20 by 40 shade house was constructed at the Richmond Farm Adult Correctional Centre to serve as a nursery for planting and growing fruit trees at an appropriate height for free distribution, which includes apples, june plums, cherries, ackees, breadfruits, avocado pears, soursops and citrus," Mair told the Observer.

"All housing recipients, schools and children's homes that currently receive support from the organisation are expected to benefit from this project. The project will also provide seedlings for an all-island gardening distribution," he continued.

Mair went on to add that the project will also benefit the inmates housed at the Richmond Farm correctional facility.

"I believe this initiative will aid in the rehabilitation of the inmates, as they are responsible for the pruning, weeding and general care of the plants. From nurturing the plants, they will learn skills in the area of agriculture," he said.

Some trees grown under the project have already been distributed: as a test under the charity's Peacemaker Community Redevelopment Project in Spring Pass, St Thomas, in October.

David Smith, a recipient of a house and trees, remarked: "This is actually very timely because we have been trying to get some mango trees to plant up the area, so I am really thankful. Plus, we don't have soursop and apples in this area, so this will be good for the community."

Another recipient, Doreen Constable, said, "We are thankful for the fruit trees. I burn coal for a living. That nuh really good for the surrounding, so having these fruit trees will help us to do something else. We can sell from it when it bear and help take care of our families."

Sceidella Clearly, a 19-year-old beneficiary, also had words of gratitude.

"We hardly get fruits in this area, so most times we have to buy it, but this is not often because the money is not there to do so. Having our own fruit trees will help us a lot. If we are able to sell from it, someday the money earned will help to send our younger siblings to school. We may even be able to be in a better position to help other poor persons in the community in the way Food For The Poor helped us," she said.

FOOD FOR THE POOR FRUIT TREE INITIATIVE: Myco Lee (left) is all smiles as he joins a donor from the United States and Mrs. Marcia Hall-Walker (right), Social Outreach Manager at FFP Jamaica in the tree planting exercise meters away from his home in the background after his house was officially handed over to him. (PHOTO: PETRI-ANN HENRY)

PLANTING A TREE: Denville Clarke of Spring Pass in St. Thomas, a recent recipient of a house from Food For The Poor planting one of two fruit trees that he received from the charity organization as part of its island-wide fruit tree distribution initiative.

NEW PLANTS FROM FFP: Denville Clarke (right), a Food For The Poor (FFP) housing recipient from Spring Pass in St. Thomas, proudly accepts two fruit trees from Junior Reid (left), Housing Coordinator from FFP, during the fruit tree distribution in the community recently.

LAURNCIA PLANTING HER TREE: Laurncia Irvin, recipient of a house from Food For The Poor smiles while she plants one of the fruit trees she received.