MONTEGO BAY – The Ocho Rios Drop-In Centre in Buckfield, St Ann, was transformed into a haven of Christmas warmth, thanks to young student philanthropist, Aryan Lakhwani.

The 18-year-old St Ann native spearheaded a food drive during the Yuletide season, which facilitated the provision of meals and refreshments for homeless, vulnerable and mentally challenged persons from Ocho Rios and neighbouring communities, who visited the Centre on Christmas Eve, December 24.

Lakhwani says the initiative was rooted in the belief that there is no greater reward than giving back to persons in need.

He emphasises the importance of fostering a spirit of love and care for the society’s most vulnerable, pointing out that, “In a climate of peace and stability, like the one we nurture at the drop-in centre, we can truly make a difference.”

Lakhwani, who has a history of community outreach having previously organised a debating competition involving primary schools in St Ann, reflects on the sharp contrast of the holiday experiences for different families.

“While many families are fortunate enough to celebrate Christmas in comfort, there are countless brothers and sisters who do not have that luxury,” he tells JIS News.

The young philanthropist adds that the joy of seeing smiles on the faces of those he helped, made the effort worthwhile.

Lakhwani, who is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme at the American International School of Kingston (AISK), expresses the hope that more corporate and private citizens will contribute to the drop-in centre.

“It’s important for our community to come together and support these initiatives,” he underscores.

Mayor of St Ann’s Bay, Councillor Michael Belnavis, praised Lakhwani’s efforts, noting that the centre not only provides meals to more than 59 individuals daily, but also offers spiritual enrichment and emotional support.

“The drop-in centre is a facility where we accommodate the homeless and persons who need help. We provide them with three meals a day, clothing, washdowns, medication, haircuts and spiritual guidance. Our goal is to create an environment where they feel loved and supported,” he told JIS News.

Belnavis said the centre has evolved beyond a simple drop-in facility, noting that many individuals now find solace in staying overnight and, in some instances, have taken up residence.

He highlighted the centre’s comprehensive interactive engagements, which include health seminars and recreational activities.

“We read to them, embrace their concerns and motivate them. They also enjoy playing games, which contributes to their overall well-being,” the mayor pointed out.

Councillor Belnavis said there are plans to expand the Ocho Rios Drop-In Centre to accommodate more individuals overnight, further enhancing the support available to those in need.

“We want to ensure that everyone has a safe place to sleep, and access to the necessary resources,” he shared.

Meanwhile, administrator at the St Ann Municipal Corporation, Suzette Prince, who also heaped praise on  Lakhwani, said as the community celebrates the spirit of Christmas, the drop-in centre remains a symbol of “love and compassion” in Buckfield and, by extension, St Ann.

“Through the combined efforts of individuals like Aryan Lakhwani and the ongoing support from local authorities, the centre continues to fulfill its mission of providing comfort, care and a sense of belonging to some of the society’s most vulnerable members. Nobody knows what tomorrow brings, which makes it even more important to look out for each other,” she told JIS News.

Drop-in centres are the first point of contact for homeless people, offering a range of care including: a bath and other hygienic care, food and medical assessment.

The Ocho Rios Drop-In Centre, which was opened on May 11, 2018, is a crucial part of the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development’s social protection programme.

The facility, built at a cost of $14 million, is designed to accommodate the homeless, the elderly and individuals experiencing mental health challenges. During its inaugural year of operation, the centre catered to approximately 9,000 people.

Persons interested in providing meals for the homeless are encouraged to utilise the available drop-in centres by contacting the Poor Relief Department, located at all 13 municipal corporations, to make the necessary arrangements.

Secretary, Board of Supervision (for the relief of the poor in Jamaica), Treka Lewis, noted that persons who want to help the homeless through the provision of meals may do so.

She points out, however, that the practice of “street feeding” is not encouraged, due to potential public health issues and other factors.

-JIS                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      -30