To the OP; You have a GOOD heart and I share your thoughts when it comes to the economic struggles of some Jamaicans. Another reason why I'm so sorry this happened to you. Although others in your group took pictures they will readily give you, it's nothing like the moments you selected to capture and bring home with you.
Odinson, Yes, the heavy-duty zip ties are the next best thing to a regulation lock and I use them all the time. But I, and perhaps the OP, didn't have it on the carry-on because I wasn't checking that piece of luggage. Now I put it on regardless.