MASSACHUSETTS, United States – Helping out communities back home or abroad is a big thing for people in the Jamaican Diaspora.

Allanah Bodah, proprietor of the Karibbean Lounge Express in Hyannis, Massachusetts, is a strong believer in benevolence.

On August 30, her restaurant and New Life Ministries, in Barnstable, Cape Cod, will stage the Ultimate Fish Fry at The Village Green in Hyannis. Proceeds from the event will assist Jamaican families facing challenges in the region.

“The funds will assist two individuals who are unable to work due to medical conditions, and one family that lost their breadwinner,” Bodah, who is from Annotto Bay in St Mary, told the Observer Online.

Citing privacy, she declined to disclose names of the beneficiaries, but said the gesture is typical of Jamaicans in North America.

“It is very important to help our community or our Jamaicans in need, because they are the reason my business stays open year round. Giving back has always been my priority in my community,” Bodah stated.

Previously known as Karibbean Lounge, Karibbean Lounge Express opened in late January with a name change, venue and format. Unlike the former which had a dining area, the new venture is solely take-out.

Bodah heads an all-Jamaican staff of five at Karibbean Lounge Express which is open six days a week.

—Howard Campbell