Jamaica T-Shirt Trip Report

[Monty&Melo]

Tuesday is pretty much a duplicate of our usual. Monty walked the beach, we had breakfast, had beach time and visited Tony’s Hut and Julie. We left the beach a little early this day so we could have lunch at Sandra’s Place. I can’t even begin to tell you all how delicious it was…OMG!! I had the fried chicken and mash with the most amazing gravy. Monty had curry conch and octopus. He cleaned his plate as well. Next trip will definitely include a lunch trip to see Sandra!! Later in the evening, my stomach wasn’t feeling well (too many Red Stripes) so I hung out on the balcony of our room reading my book. Monty stayed at the Rondel bar with Delroy then walked to Best of the West for Jerk Chicken. I must admit, when he came back to the room, it smelled wonderful! I ate one festival and some coco bread and was feeling much better.

After a good night’s sleep, we were ready to start Wednesday. The morning was the same but today we finally got to see Maureen at Sunnyside…yay!! She was caught off guard by the contribution we delivered to her and was absolutely thrilled. She told us that frequently, a day will go by with no visitors at all. It is crazy how empty the beach is right now. We have been to Jamaica several times during slow season…this is slower than slow!

After our visit, we changed clothes and headed out with Rob and Lisa. We had an exciting afternoon planned. First on our list this day was Connie’s Honky Tonk Pub and we were privileged to meet Connie and Sasha. Once again, like the other business owners, they were so excited to see us wearing our shirts. We enjoyed a couple cold Red Stripes and discussed the current situation in Jamaica. They are hurting like everyone else due to virtually no tourists. She confirmed that a number of businesses are having their current and water cut off and are facing the unknown as to how to pay their bills and rent with little to no money. They are forever grateful for the contributions to help ease their suffering for a bit. Needless to say, they were very excited to get more contribution money.

After saying goodbye, we headed to Miss Sonia’s. If I had to pick just one person who touched me the most, I would have to say Miss Sonia. While I got teary eyed at the other establishments, Miss Sonia totally made me cry. She was so appreciative and surprised. She’s just a total sweetheart!

Next on our list was Fr. Jim. We gave him the 3rd batch of donations for the St. Anthony’s Soup Kitchen. Let’s just say…this was a total pleasure. As soon as we arrived, we gave him the t-shirt he purchased (he was the first person to buy a shirt to show how much he supported this endeavor). He immediately went inside to put it on. We talked at great length about the tremendous need but also, the resiliency of the Jamaican people. Through all of our visits, everyone we met still had a smile on their face, love in their heart, were so welcoming and were working so hard to make it through all of this.

The last of the businesses to visit was Quality’s Sea Breeze. He was completely surprised by the money we delivered. He says he is truly blessed! Actually, we were the ones blessed to be able to deliver this money to everyone and see them in person. We can’t thank you all enough for all the purchases of shirts and donations to the Soup Kitchen. While we were at Quality’s, what else could we do but eat a delicious meal? Of course!!! Monty had a curried whole snapper, mash, veggies and fruit and I had the fried shrimp with the same sides! His food is always so fresh and amazing!



It goes without saying that we went to bed very happy that evening!