THE Christmas spirit was on full display at KFC Falmouth last Wednesday as Restaurant of Jamaica (ROJ) team members handed over toys to The Salvation Army’s Western Jamaica Division, supporting the organisation’s seasonal outreach to children and families in need.

The handover brought together members of the KFC Falmouth restaurant team and Major Jonathan Kellman, divisional commander of The Salvation Army’s Western Jamaica Division, who accepted the donation on behalf of the organisation.

The toys were purchased by ROJ team members themselves, reflecting a shared effort to support the drive and contribute meaningfully during the holiday season.

The donation also forms part of ROJ’s long-standing relationship with The Salvation Army, one which is highlighted by the company’s KFC Harvest Surplus Feeding Programme, under which the Salvation Army serves as one of its certified surplus food recipient partners in western Jamaica.

Speaking on the initiative, Andrei Roper, marketing manager of ROJ, said the moment reflected the values that guide the company’s teams year round.

“This initiative was driven by our ROJ support centre staff and KFC restaurant team members, and that’s what makes it extra special. They chose to give in a very personal way, knowing these toys would help bring some joy to children at Christmas. It also speaks to the strength of our relationship with The Salvation Army, which continues through the Harvest Programme beyond the holiday season,” said Roper.

Major Kellman welcomed the donation, noting the importance of consistent partnerships during the Christmas period.

“We truly appreciate this gesture from ROJ. Support like this helps us extend our Christmas outreach to children and families who rely on our programmes, and it reflects a partnership that has grown through trust and shared commitment,” said Major Kellman.

The KFC Harvest Programme, which began with 11 restaurants, has since expanded to include all 43 KFC locations islandwide.

Through the programme, surplus food is collected weekly by certified partners and distributed to approved charitable organisations, including children’s homes, shelters, and community-based groups across Jamaica.

The programme supports vulnerable groups while reducing food waste and strengthening community partnerships.

The toy donation also reflects continued support being directed to communities in western Jamaica following the impact of Hurricane Melissa, with a focus on reaching children and families in areas such as St Elizabeth and Westmoreland, which were among the affected parishes.

Major Jonathan Kellman, divisional commander of The Salvation Army’s Western Jamaica Division, accepts a donation of toys from Kereen Atkins Wilson, general manager for KFC Falmouth during a handover at the restaurant last Wednesday.