I hope everyone is eagerly looking forward to the Feast in Jamaica in less than two months! While we prepare for the upcoming fall Holy Day season, let’s set aside some time to share our abundance with our Jamaican brethren.

Families Helping Families was designed to help local brethren with donated items and financial assistance. Using this program is a perfect opportunity to follow Galatians 6:10 “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Any money donated will be deposited into the Jamaican congregations’ accounts. Checks may be made out to UCGIA - Jamaica Limited. Cash can be given to the Business Office (open before and after services most days during the Feast, except on Holy Days).

If you are interested in volunteering your time to help organize items donated at the Feast, please let me know at sierra.stewart@outlook.com.

If you are interested in donating items, needed items are listed below. If you have extra space in your luggage, please bring what you are able. Please note that anything donated will be gladly accepted! But if you need inspiration, here are some suggestions:

Technology: Technology isn't necessary for survival, but if anyone is wanting to get ahead in life, having the skills and the opportunity to use technology is essential.

Calculators, headphones, batteries, cell phones, laptops, tablets, chargers, protective cases etc.

Clothing: Outer garments can be cheap and reused for years, but inner garments are more difficult to come by. Having undergarments that are clean and that fit help tremendously with confidence, modesty, and hygiene.

Socks, men's/women's/children’s underwear, undershirts, bras, sanitary items, baby diapers, swimsuits, etc. Men’s/women’s/children’s shoes, men’s pants and dress shirts, work-appropriate clothing (like black or Khaki pants), boots, and other lightweight clothing.

School/office supplies: Basic supplies cost extra money for students and family businesses. Also, gently used or new Bibles are needed for brethren and the community.

Legal pads, notebooks, pens, pencils, staplers, tape, folders, scissors, printer paper, Ziploc bags, backpacks, inexpensive reading glasses, coloring materials (crayons may melt), work bags, gently used small suitcases or duffel bags, etc.

Food: We have discussed the potential for a food pantry for the brethren since consistent work is hard to find and some of the brethren are only able to eat one meal per day. The best options are dry food items which can be prepared by adding water and/or local produce. Please refrain from bringing canned food. Also, please check all labels to avoid any unclean ingredients.

• Nut and trail mixes, dried fruits, freeze-dried backpacking meals
• Nut butters, peanut butters (in little pouches), crackers, chips, dry snacks
• Unleavened bread (matzos, rye krisp, etc.
• Pastas, rice, dried potatoes, dried beans, meal mixes
• Shelf stable protein (like jerky), pouches of tuna, protein powder/protein bars
• Infant Formula (powdered), powdered milk
• Hot and cold breakfast cereals, oatmeal packets, cereal bars, granola
• Vitamins (Emergen-C)

Feast Gifts:  It’s always special to bring a few Feast gifts for the children and adults.

Small toys or stuffed animals, activity books, candy/snacks, stickers

Bible-themed activity books, Bibles, calendars, notecards, bookmarks, kitchen items (tea towels/potholders), chocolate, etc.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me at sierra.stewart@outlook.com. 

Thank you again for your generosity and love. 

Sierra Stewart, 

sierra.stewart@outlook.com

Knoxville, TN Congregation