St Mary native, Missionary Joyce Lopez is seeking to put bright smiles on the faces of several families this Yuletide season.
The 80-year-old woman, who has been lightening the burdens of others since 1989, said she has a few barrels of food items and is urging people in need to reach out to collect a few parcels.
"I know people always reach out to THE STAR for help so I have always just read to keep up to date. So I have Jasmine rice, sardines, noodles, mackerel, canned vegetables, and so on. No one should have to go hungry this holiday or ever. I also have blood pressure machines, adult diapers, a pair of crutches, lotions, deodorants, vitamins, children's clothing and shoes. I just want to help those who need help. This is not about Christmas alone, but I do this all year round," she said.
Lopez, who worked in the medical field for years in the US, stressed that for decades, she has spent thousands to purchase food and clothing as well as health aids for Jamaicans. She added that she received assistance from other parties in the US.
"This is my work to help the needy and I will continue to do so. Sometimes when I am overseas, I get food bags up there. So I get them and throw them in the barrels. I also purchase some from my pockets. I have contributed to a lot of children's homes and so on. I love what I do and my purpose in life is to give. God has been really good to me and you could call me a professional beggar, but I will do what I have to do to help my people as long as I live," she said.
Lopez said she cannot single-handedly pick a family that needs assistance, but said that she has read a number of articles in which persons are seeking a good Samaritan.
"I don't want anyone to feel like I am just throwing things or pitying them. I just like giving. I have been giving to homes for a while, but what I realise is that some of the staff at some of these homes, some of them are taking the packages home for themselves instead of giving the children," she said.
The senior citizen, who resides between the US and Jamaica, said she will be travelling overseas next month in search of other charitable items .
Persons in need of assistance may contact Joyce Lopez at 876 384 5054.
