THE Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC), led by Mayor of Kingston Delroy Williams, joined forces with Pepsi-Cola Jamaica to stage its annual feeding programme on New Year’s Day at the St William Grant Park in downtown Kingston.

More than 400 homeless people were handed meals in the St William Grant Park, with another 100 benefiting from the gesture at other locations across the city. Feeding is one aspect of the KSAMC Homeless Programme, which is coordinated by its Poor Relief Department located on Hanover Street, in downtown Kingston.

Williams was particularly pleased with the turnout of volunteers at this year’s event, including staff from Pepsi, KSAMC junior counsellors, and members of the Johnson Town Seventh-day Adventist Church.

“There are many members and persons across the municipality who look forward to coming here and helping the KSAMC staff. This is good, we always enjoy and like to see the synergy between corporate Jamaica and the municipality, and generally the Government, in support of worthy ventures,” said Williams.

“This [initiative] is something that is very significant to us. It has become over the years a part of us and we are committed to this programme and creating an environment for persons to transition from homelessness into into regular life where they can afford their own residence,” added Williams.

In the meantime Pepsi-Cola Jamaica’s Brand Coordinator Yanique Dawkins said when the KSAMC reached out to the company for the support, it was a no brainer.

“Jamaica has done a lot for Pepsi, so what better way to start the new year than giving those who need it the most, a warm meal and an ice cold drink. Let’s start 2024 right, I want Jamaicans to have a safe and blessed new year,” said Dawkins.

Meals, clothing and other gifts were also provided to vulnerable groups, especially the homeless during the initiative.

Through its Homeless Programme, the KSAMC feeds 700 to 800 vulnerable people twice per day.