The Salvation Army has unveiled an extensive holiday initiative across Saint Lucia, designed to bring festive joy and essential support to underserved communities throughout December. Under the leadership of Captain Jude St Juste, the organization has coordinated a strategic series of events targeting both children and adults in vulnerable situations.
The seasonal campaign commences on December 6th with a collaborative event alongside KFC at Serenity Park, where toys and meals will be distributed to children. Subsequent outreach activities are scheduled for December 18th in Castries and December 19th in Vieux Fort, where care packages containing household necessities, food supplies, and personal essentials will be provided to adults, while children receive festive toys.
A highlight of the initiative will be the Christmas dinner on December 26th for homeless individuals at the Castries City Council premises. Supported by Sandals resort, this gathering will feature full-course meals, ice cream desserts, and live entertainment, creating a dignified celebratory experience for those often marginalized during the holiday season.
Funding for these programs relies heavily on the annual Christmas Kettle campaign, operating from November 7th through December 24th outside Massy Stores locations island-wide. Donations collected directly support both seasonal activities and year-round assistance programs, including medication subsidies for those in need.
Beyond holiday efforts, the organization maintains substantial ongoing operations, serving 135-140 daily meals on weekdays, distributing monthly care packages, providing clothing donations, and operating affordable daycare and preschool services for financially strained families.
Captain St Juste, who recently transferred from Salvation Army operations in Jamaica and Antigua, emphasized the critical need for expanded local partnerships and volunteer support. While acknowledging current collaborations with Massy Stores, Domino’s Pizza, and KFC, he highlighted persistent shortages in supplies and manpower, noting that some volunteers travel from Jamaica specifically to assist.
The organization actively encourages community participation, inviting individuals to contribute even two to three hours of volunteer time. Those interested in supporting these efforts can contact the Salvation Army office at +1-758-452-3108, reach Captain St Juste directly at +1-758-727-9033, or email sacastries@yahoo.com.