Best use of charitable dollars??

Like many of us, I find it hard to ignore the poverty surrounding me in Negril, especially while I'm on an expensive vacation. I usually bring soccer balls, school supplies, etc, but I would like to do something more this year. We are coming down in August with at least 6, all of whom have promised to commit $100 or more to give to a worthy cause. I was hoping to get some input from you kind folks that know much more about the local scene than I do. I'd love to hear any ideas y'all have. Whether it goes to a family that has fallen on hard times, pays for a child's schooling, or goes to a local charity is not too important, I would just like the money to go where it will be needed the most. Thanks in advance!!

I think St. Anthony's kitchen would be a great choice

Cap

We have given money in the past to St Anthony's kitchen. We have also brought toys, school supplies, backpacks, etc to Negril to pass out on the pub crawl. But our favorite is bringing musical instruments for the kids. Lenbert and I agree that kids that have an interest in music are more focused and do better in school. Last November we brought 51 instruments to Negril because we love Jamaica and the people that live there. We want the children to have as many advantages as they can get.

We will be bringing more instruments in November. We hope others will help with our efforts.

Glad to see other Tennesseans going to Jamaica.

Any animal lovers in the group? Spay and neuter clinics could use some funding. If interested, reach out to Debbie Lightheart as she is ground central for all things animals in Negril. Leashes and collars are well received, but cash is king and the doctors who donate their time need help with supplies.

knowledge is power

I second St Anthony's kitchen....Contact Father Jim Bok jimbok@franciscan.org and volunteer to serve lunch too!!

Thank you all!! I'll do some research....

http://www.neetja.com/

Oh I'm still planning on bringing as much as I can carry. So far I have a trumpet, guitar, and set of harmonicas.

Stop passing stuff out on the bar crawls. It's not helping.

I totally agree with HarryS!!!!!

The worst possible thing you can do is just hand items out willy-nilly to locals you don't know. This practice while it may make you feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside is destructive on so many levels. It's different if you are taking gifts to friends you have developed a realtionship with over several visits. Leave your items with recognized chartities or with someone who comes recommended from this or other websites who will distribute the items to schools or elsewhere, or leave your items with a church who will also distribute the items to those who need them most.

I don't do that. The stuff I bring is given to adults to give to their children.