Poor people get special holiday treat
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of Food For the Poor (FFP) David Mair has said that the annual mass feeding of the poor at Christmas time is one of the most impactful events locally that has grown from strength to strength in recent years.
Mair, who has headed the charity organisation for three and a half years, pointed to the increase in the number of volunteers as well as corporate support as the reasons for the improved event.
“We’ve had a lot of help from Salvation Army, and since I’ve been here, I’ve seen a definite improvement in how we bring them in and how we seat them. The volunteers have been crucial in directing and keeping order because 2,000 people is no small crowd,” said Mair, adding that the efforts of FFP, the Salvation Army, and others, resulted in more than 250 persons turning out to volunteer.
“We’ve seen a great response to our needs from corporate Jamaica. There’s always need for improvement because unfortunately, the poor and needy will always be with us, so we always accept and invite more sponsorship, but we are getting the support, and we’re very thankful for that,” Mair added.
The executive underscored that FFP was totally ingrained in the fabric of the country.
“We’re involved in a crosssection of every ministry. We’re involved in education through the building of schools; housing ministry, through constructing houses for the less fortunate; agriculture because we have 18 fishing villages on the ground; we’re involved in all public hospitals. So we will continue to make a difference and alleviate suffering,” said Mair.
As part of its Christmas activities, FFP will next treat children from 26 orphanages on Wednesday, December 20.