Canadian volunteers build a new future in Jamaica

Just in time for the holiday season, a deserving family in Jamaica now has a new place to call home, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Rokhaya (Rok) Gueye and a team of Canadian and Jamaican contractors. From November 13th to 17th, Gueye, a seasoned volunteer with over 30 years of experience, led a team of eight contractors to Jamaica, where they accomplished a remarkable feat—constructing a complete home for a family in just two days.

The project was part of an initiative organized by Food for the Poor, a charitable organization that helps build homes and provide essential aid to communities in need. The foundation for the home was poured 30 days prior to the team’s arrival, allowing ample time for it to cure. This preparation enabled the team to immediately start building upon arrival.

The house, designed for a family of four, includes two bedrooms, a dining room, a living room, a kitchen, a washroom, and even an attic space for the children. The family—a mother named Beulah and her three children, one of whom is disabled—previously lived in a dilapidated one-bedroom structure without proper sanitation facilities. Their living conditions were dire, particularly affecting Beulah’s disabled son, who suffered a leg amputation due to injuries sustained from traversing hazardous terrain.

“When she got the key, she ran to the door. We were all laughing,” Gueye shared, recalling the heartwarming moment. “She said she could go to heaven right now—she couldn’t believe it. She was over the moon.”

The collaborative effort involved seven local contractors working alongside the Canadian team. The build, which began at 8:30 a.m. on the first day, progressed steadily and concluded by 5:00 p.m. the following day, with brief breaks for lunch on both days. This impressive efficiency underscored the dedication and teamwork of everyone involved, ensuring the project was completed within two days.

Gueye, originally from Senegal and now based in Toronto, led the project for the first time after previously assisting behind the scenes. Her leadership, bolstered by the support of her colleagues, marked a new chapter in her lifelong commitment to giving back.

Reflecting on the experience, Gueye described the emotional impact of the project. “We had all sorts of emotions—from crying to laughing. Being able to provide a foundation for a family in need is just unbelievable.”

The land for the home was provided by Beulah’s family, meeting one of the key requirements for Food for the Poor projects. The organization’s branches in Canada and Jamaica, played a crucial role in organizing and facilitating the build.

Gueye and her team are now exploring opportunities to expand their work to other Caribbean nations and possibly South America. The mission remains clear: to provide safe, secure homes for those who need them most.

For Beulah and her children, this home represents more than just shelter. It’s a symbol of hope, dignity, and a brighter future—a Christmas gift that will last a lifetime.

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