Drop-In Centre Visitor Receives Guitar from Minister
By: , April 8, 2026
Photo: Okoye Henry
Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie (right), hands over a new guitar to musician and regular visitor to the St. Ann Drop-in Centre, Allmond Belnavis (left), during a visit to the facility in Ocho Rios, on Tuesday (April 7). Looking on are St. Ann's Bay Mayor, Michael Belnavis and Secretary of the Board of Supervision, Treka Lewis.
Photo: Okoye Henry
Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie (left), sings along with musician and regular visitor to the St. Ann Drop-in Centre in Ocho Rios, Allmond Belnavis (centre), after presenting him with a new guitar on April 7. At right is St. Ann's Bay Mayor, Michael Belnavis.The Full Story
Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, made good on a promise he made to a regular visitor to the St. Ann Drop-in Centre in Ocho Rios, when he presented a new guitar to the musician, Allmond Belnavis, on April 7.
The presentation, which brought a sense of warmth and purpose to the facility, formed part of the Government’s effort to go beyond providing shelter and basic care, and instead focus on restoring dignity and personal fulfilment for those in its care.
In his address, Mr. McKenzie explained that the gesture stemmed from a previous visit, when he noticed Mr. Belnavis sitting alone outside the building.
Choosing to engage him, the Minister learned more about his life and discovered his deep love for music.
“For certain conditions, he can no longer play straight but we don’t want to take away that love from him, and I’m here this afternoon to present him with a brand-new guitar,” the Minister said.
“Also, this is not just a building, a structure in which they sleep, get medical care and get something to eat. This is all about allowing them to remain focused and to continue to do the things that they would normally do on a daily basis,” he added.
In the meantime, the Minister pointed out the broader efforts by the Administration to assist vulnerable Jamaicans.
He said these initiatives are part of a wider commitment to uplift citizens regardless of their circumstances and to respond to their needs in meaningful ways.
For his part, St. Ann’s Bay Mayor, Michael Belnavis, said the occasion was more than a simple handover, as the gesture represents recognition of the value and dignity of every individual, particularly those who may feel overlooked.
He expressed appreciation for the Minister’s presence and support, noting that the occasion would hold lasting meaning for the recipient.
Meanwhile, Mr. Allmond Belnavis thanked the Minister and his team as he reflected on his years as a musician, performing gigs at hotels and other establishments when he was younger.
