Tourism Ministry brings holiday cheer to hospitality workers’ children

Over 600 children of tourism workers and their family members were recently hosted during a series of special Christmas treats that were hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies over three days across resort areas, including Kingston, Portland, Treasure Beach, Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

The Christmas treats were aimed at recognising the contributions of the tourism workers who play a vital role in the country’s vibrant hospitality sector. The ministry partnered with local businesses, community organisations, and volunteers to create memorable experiences that were filled with holiday cheers.

"Our tourism workers are the backbone of our sector and these celebrations recognise their dedication while bringing joy to their children during the holiday season. It is timely as the sector continues to grow and our workers are the driving force behind this," said Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett.

The children were treated to an exciting array of activities, including bounce-a-bouts, mechanical bulls, games and a visit from Santa Claus, who arrived bearing gifts for every child. The events also featured live entertainment, including dance performances.

In his visit to the treat at Harmony Beach Park in Montego Bay, Bartlett emphasised the importance of the event.

“The dedication of our tourism workers ensures that visitors to our country experience the best of our hospitality. We celebrate not only their hard work, but also the joy and wonder of the season through their children. This is our way of giving back to those who give so much to our nation.”

Toys were also distributed to 10 hotels across Trelawny, Montego Bay and Negril to ensure that the children of staff there who were unable to attend the Christmas treats, would still receive a share of the holiday joy.

The treats were made possible through the support of the ministry’s public bodies and tourism partners who provided toys, refreshments and other resources. Their support ensured that the children and their families could enjoy a day filled with festive cheer.

The Ministry of Tourism plans to make the initiative an annual tradition, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the well-being of tourism workers and their families.

As yearend approached, the ministry extended warm holiday wishes to all who were part of the overall initiative, and expressed confidence for a prosperous New Year for the tourism sector in general, and the nation at large.