ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — A 67-year-old man has regained his freedom after spending 10 months in the St Catherine Adult Correctional Centre, thanks to the intervention of Food For The Poor (FFP) through its prison ministry.

The man was imprisoned in 2025 for contempt of court following a dispute with his brother over family land left by their late father. He reportedly believed he had a rightful share in the property; however, the land had been legally willed to his brother. The disagreement escalated into a court matter, resulting in him being fined $114,000 for remaining on the disputed property against legal orders. Unable to pay the fine, he was remanded to prison, where he remained for 10 months.

Upon learning of the case, Food For The Poor stepped in, using donor contributions to settle the full fine. The payment resulted in his immediate release and the clearing of all related charges.

With his release secured, FFP said he will enrol in its Fresh Start Programme, a component of the organisation’s prison ministry dedicated to helping former inmates rebuild their lives.

A farmer by trade, he will undergo an assessment interview to determine the specific support he needs to successfully reintegrate into society, FFP said. It added that he will receive practical assistance to restart his agricultural livelihood which may include seeds, fertiliser, farming tools, or other supplies.

The Fresh Start Programme is designed to empower released inmates who often face significant barriers to employment. By offering personalised support and resources, Food For The Poor said it aims to ensure that individuals like him will have a meaningful opportunity to regain independence, stability and dignity.