I've been to Jamaica on several occasions. One of the most vivid memories I have is of river tubing. It was a lot of fun, but the memory that stands out the most is of the people I met on the excursion. The man who guided us down the river wore sneakers that were barren, and his toes were sticking out the sides. Something as simple as a pair of sneakers could make the man smile.
Likewise for the children we encountered at a rest stop on the river. They were excited to meet "the Americans", but they were also curious to know if I had something with me that they could keep. That visit prompted me to connect with a couple who were taking a cruise the next month. Together, we bought sneakers, and toys and pencils and pinwheels, and small items that could be distributed to the villagers in Jamaica. I know they appreciated the gesture.
Now Sandals has created the Holiday Toy Drive, and getting donations to people in Jamaica and other islands that Sandals/Beaches resorts are in is a lot easier. I applaud them for the efforts, and encourage my friends and clients to contribute to this worthy cause.
Comments