Duty on donations

[vikman]

We just dropped off a bunch of clothes for the kids for Fr. Jim in February. We were concerned but just took the extra suitcase and mixed in kids clothes with ours in all the suitcases. Was not an issue at all. Did not declare anything. fr Jim was very helpful in getting in contact with us to drop the clothes off. We had our driver from the hotel take us to the church and when he found out why we were going he would not even accept any money for the ride. negril always makes us feel good but giving back to the kids made the trip a lot nicer.

[St. Anthony's Kitchen]

as for filling the bags--just about anything is usable EXCEPT winter coats, scarves, boots and the like! For kids--underwear, socks, pants, shirts flip-flops, school shoes (black)--toys, games--school supplies...

I would suggest that you just carry your bags through the regular customs check. They rarely bother tourists. One caution--don't bring too many bags that arouse suspicion. A couple (good friends) came to visit-son worked for airline and they got business--three bags each--two people with six rather large bags coming for one week. the agent was most suspicious and sent them to the "declare" line. they had a boat load of stuff for us. They ended up paying USD$29--not bad at all. you are allowed USD$500 worth of goods. I would not keep tags on items. If you get inspected just tell them that you are bringing the stuff for the Catholic Church in Negril to be used in their soup kitchen downtown and that various friends back home donated all this stuff. They will not be too hard on you. Give me a call to arrange delivery--cell is 1-876-881-1763. I am happy to help as I can and thanks for the consideration! --Fr. Jim