Over 300 families, including 155 residents of a temporary shelter, received Christmas cheer when Restaurant Associates Limited (RAL), parent company of Burger King, Popeyes, Krispy Kreme and Little Caesars, partnered with the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) for its annual Christmas treat, which is typically held in Kingston but was relocated to Westmoreland this year in response to the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

The event was held at Petersfield High School, which is currently being used as a shelter, and formed part of national recovery efforts, with a focus on restoring joy and a sense of normalcy for families during the Christmas season.

Rashai Graham, communication, community and strategy executive at RAL, said the company was moved to act after seeing the impact of the hurricane on families, particularly children.

“As a Jamaican company, we believe that when our communities are impacted, we have a responsibility to step forward. Partnering with the OPM allowed us to reach families in a meaningful way, especially at a time like Christmas when hope and joy matter most,” Graham said.

Through its portfolio of brands, RAL supported the initiative through hot meal distribution provided by Burger King, Popeyes and Little Caesars, ensuring families received warm meals on the day. Burger King also provided toys to children at the event, while Krispy Kreme contributed sweet treats, adding to the festive atmosphere and overall experience.

In addition to the on-site distribution, Restaurant Associates Limited will be donating 400 Burger King toys to be included in care packages being distributed by the OPM to five children’s homes, extending the reach of the initiative beyond the day’s activities.

The prime minister participated in the event, spending time with the children and personally handing out gift packages, while commending the private sector’s role in supporting national recovery efforts.

Graham indicated that placing children at the centre of the initiative was a deliberate decision. “Children often feel the impact of disasters the hardest, even when they may not always express it. By ensuring they could enjoy a warm meal and receive a toy, we wanted to give them a moment to simply be children again, to smile, to play and to feel remembered during this season,” she added.

The initiative also continues a long-standing relationship between Restaurant Associates Limited and the Office of the Prime Minister, with RAL supporting the annual Christmas treat for several years. 

Graham noted that RAL’s brands operate in communities all across Jamaica and that connection goes beyond business.

“It means showing up, supporting families, and standing with the country in times of challenge,” she said, adding that initiatives like this reflect its broader role as a Jamaican quick service restaurant operator and employer with deep ties to communities across the island. 

The company hopes the initiative sends a message of encouragement to families in Westmoreland and across Jamaica.

“To the children and families affected by Hurricane Melissa, we want you to know that you are not alone. As a company, and as a country, we move forward together,” Graham stated.