Hummingbird Feeds 400 in Kingston
In a display of community spirit and compassion, Hummingbird Charities, in partnership with the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) and Pepsi Cola Jamaica, brought nourishment and hope to 400 individuals in need during a special New Year’s Day feeding initiative.
The event marked the début of Hummingbird Charities’ ‘Hummingbird Feeds’ food truck, which served meals and beverages provided by Pepsi Cola Jamaica.
Held under the canopy of tents and with seating arrangements that emphasised dignity and comfort, the event aimed to provide not just food, but a sense of belonging and care to attendees, many of whom are part of Kingston’s homeless population.
Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby, speaking on behalf of the KSAMC, underscored the importance of such partnership.
“This event is not just about feeding people. It’s about showing that everyone has value, purpose, and a place in our community,” Swaby said. “With partners like Hummingbird Charities and Pepsi Cola Jamaica, we can make significant strides in supporting our most vulnerable citizens.”
Shevel Turton, coordinator for Hummingbird Charities, reflected on the significance of the initiative.
“Today marks the first activation of our ‘Hummingbird Feeds’ initiative, rooted in our mission to provide support and hope to those who need it most, Turton said. “Through this partnership, we aim to not only provide meals, but also to send a message of care, dignity, and compassion.”
Attendees enjoyed wholesome meals of rice and peas with brown stewed chicken and vegetables, specially prepared to provide comfort and nourishment. The event also featured beverages from Pepsi Cola Jamaica’s portfolio, including Ocean Spray Flavour Splash, Pepsi, and Crystal Punch water.
Karonna Atkins, brand coordinator for Pepsi Cola Jamaica, highlighted the company’s commitment to giving back.
“Pepsi Cola Jamaica has always been about more than just selling drinks. Supporting initiatives like this reflects our dedication to uplifting communities and ensuring Jamaicans have access to quality refreshments,” she said.
The day was not only about meals, but also about fostering connections and dignity for the beneficiaries.
Swaby reiterated the KSAMC’s commitment to establishing safe and welcoming spaces for the homeless population, including the development of centralised locations to provide ongoing support.
This initiative signals the beginning of what Hummingbird Charities hopes will be a sustained effort to bring hope and nourishment to communities in need. Plans are already in motion to expand the Hummingbird Feeds initiative to other locations and introduce regular feeding programmes, as it seeks to ensure that the spirit of compassion and service continues beyond New Year’s Day.
https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20250106/hummingbird-feeds-400-kingston