IN the heart of Brook Avenue in Duhaney Park, St Andrew, something special unfolded this Christmas.

Anthony Hylton, Member of Parliament for St Andrew Western and Michelle Thomas, councillor candidate for the Duhaney Park Division (People’s National Party) joined forces to host a memorable dinner on Christmas Eve for the elderly in the community.

According to Thomas, the event was not only about festive indulgence but a sincere gesture to honour and recognise the invaluable contributions of our seniors as the foundation members and shapers of our community.

“It aimed not only to celebrate the joyous season but also to pay homage to those whose wisdom, resilience, and experiences have sculpted the very essence of our neighbourhoods,” Thomas said.

Thomas further explained that her advocacy and political drive is fuelled by her passion to “merge the vibrancy of the younger generation and the wisdom of the older community to make Duhaney Park and by extension, Jamaica, a better place to live.

“By bringing them together in celebration, it was a chance to show gratitude for their immeasurable contributions and to create a moment where their legacy was cherished and honoured,” she explained.

Hylton passionately noted the seniors’ role as “keepers and transmitters of the values of caring, sharing and the spirit of unity in the individual and community family”. He wished the elders continued health and happiness throughout the holiday and for the coming year.

As the evening progressed, the seniors were in a joyous mood joining in the singing of Christmas carols, each note carrying a lifetime of memories and cherished moments.

Amidst the curried goat, jerk chicken, rice and peas, and sorrel by Guava Gap Delights, one of the most touching moments of the evening was the recognition of the eldest seniors at each table. Seniors ranging from their 70s to 90s were acknowledged and honoured with special gifts.

One senior in commenting on the gesture, said the dinner was a reminder that the true spirit of the season lies in cherishing and honouring one another.

“MP Hylton and Ms Thomas, through their thoughtful gesture, embodied the spirit of Christmas by fostering unity, respect, and appreciation for the pillars of our society -the seniors who have paved the way for generations to come,” she said.