In a touching display of community spirit and resilience, the Guava Gap Seventh-day Adventist (GGSDA) Church led a significant Labour Day project to aid a family that lost their home to a fire on March 15, 2024.
The fire, caused by a small child playing with a lighter, left 14 family members—eight adults and six children—homeless and without any possessions.
Immediately after the fire, Sister Carol Lawrence, the Community Services Director at GGSDA, swiftly mobilized church members to provide essential aid. They delivered food, clothing, and financial support to the family, ensuring they had the necessities during this difficult time.
:: Photo credit:
:: Photo credit:
With Labour Day approaching, the church saw an opportunity to extend its support further. The family had begun rebuilding a more permanent structure on the property, using blocks and steel for durability. Recognizing the family's efforts, the church decided to make their rebuilding project the focus of their Labour Day initiative, providing crucial assistance to help them complete their new home.
On May 23, 2024, over 100 volunteers from more than 15 churches within the East Jamaica Conference, along with family members, friends, and neighbours from the Manning’s Hill district, gathered to support the cause. The day began early, with members of the Community Services Department at GGSDA preparing breakfast to nourish the volunteers. By 9:30 AM, work was well underway at the site, with teams mixing cement, moving gravel and sand, clearing debris, and performing various construction tasks. Skilled professionals, including masons, carpenters, and electricians, also contributed their expertise.
:: Photo credit:
Pastor Selvin Stewart, Pastor for the GGSDA, noted that “It was truly a Christian experience when the GGSDA family, in collaboration with the Community Services Team from EJC, joined their hearts and hands together in a show of love as they assisted with the reconstruction of the home of the fire victims on Lower Manning’s Hill Road. The interest in our church and our message was evoked as we lived the truth of the quote, which says, 'People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.' Us being His hands and feet were pleasingly used. I believe that our worth was measured by such a good deed, which reflects our love for the Lord."
Community Services Director Sister Lawrence expressed her gratitude and pride in the collective effort.
“The turnout was amazing. We had over 100 volunteers from 15 churches, and the love and support of the church and community was an amazing experience. God is good and we give Him all the glory," said Lawrence.
:: Photo credit:
East Jamaica Conference Community Services Director, Pastor Sheldon Schooler, expressed his admiration for the community's involvement, stating, “I was impressed with the community's involvement and pleased with the church members coming out and doing their part. It was a good day, and we were more than happy to assist this family. We salute Guava Gap SDA for their continuous community involvement.”
Gary, one of the victims, shared his appreciation, saying, "Thanks to GGSDA and everyone for the help, we really appreciate it and we give thanks.”
Firaca, a community member who came out to help, also commented saying, "Bwoy mi nuh know bout nuh baddy else but mi a glow from every angle. I’m so pleased with what happened here…mi whole year jus mek.”
This Labour Day project not only provided the family with vital assistance in rebuilding their home but also allowed the church community to witness and minister through their actions. Reflecting the spirit of Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven,” the church's efforts exemplified their dedication to serving others and demonstrating God's love, supporting their motto “serving with a smile.”