Treasure Beach Unites: A Community’s Response to Tragedy
Treasure Beach, the birthplace of community tourism in Jamaica, has always been known for its warmth, resilience, and the deep bond between locals and visitors. That bond was tested recently when a horrific accident shook our small coastal town, involving longtime visitors and beloved friends of the community, Frank and Janice Stewart. The incident not only brought grief but also galvanized the entire community—both at home and abroad—into action.
A Community in Mourning and Mobilization
Frank and Janice Stewart were more than just visitors; they were part of the Treasure Beach family. Their love for the area and its people spanned over 20 years, creating lasting relationships that went far beyond tourism. When news of the accident spread, an outpouring of support flooded in from all corners of the world—fellow travelers, local business owners, and residents alike shared in the pain of the tragedy.
But amid the sorrow, Treasure Beach did what it does best—it came together. Almost immediately, conversations turned to action, focusing on ways to prevent such accidents in the future. The response was swift, determined, and full of the community spirit that has long defined this special place.
Immediate Action: Blood Drive and Medical Care
One of the most urgent needs following the accident was securing blood donations for Frank’s recovery. The community responded overwhelmingly, with locals lining up to donate in Mandeville and Kingston, demonstrating their deep compassion and solidarity.
Discussions are now underway to once again fast-track the establishment of a health clinic in Treasure Beach, ensuring that both residents and visitors have access to critical medical care in times of emergency. This initiative is gaining momentum, with local leaders and stakeholders exploring ways to bring the project to life as soon as possible.
Safety Improvements Take Shape
The call for increased road safety in Treasure Beach had been made before, but this tragic incident brought a renewed urgency. Residents, business owners such as Maxwell Construction, and local authorities quickly collaborated to implement tangible changes:
Speed Bumps Installed: New speed bumps are being placed in key areas to slow down traffic, ensuring that pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers navigate the roads with greater caution.
Sidewalks Cleared and Improved: Pathways in disrepair will be cleared to create safer walking spaces for school kids, locals and visitors alike.
A Broader Call to Action: Discussions are ongoing about additional safety measures, including better signage, more speed bumps and rumble sticks, improved lighting, and increased community awareness about responsible driving.
These efforts are not just about infrastructure; they represent a powerful statement about the values of Treasure Beach—where people take care of one another and take action when it matters most.
A Global Response and How to Help
The Stewarts’ deep connection to Treasure Beach meant that the response wasn’t just local. Friends and supporters from across the world reached out, donating to the GoFundMe Account set up by Janice’s daughter, Melisa.
The GoFundMe account will support Frank’s recovery and help bring Janice home. Those wishing to contribute can do so here:
Donate to the GoFundMe campaign
Honoring Frank and Janice’s Legacy
As the physical changes take shape in Treasure Beach, there’s a deeper transformation happening as well. The community is determined to support Frank and honor Janice’s legacy by ensuring that their love for the town translates into lasting positive change. Their impact on Treasure Beach will not be forgotten, and their memory will serve as a reminder of why community-driven efforts matter.
In the face of heartbreak, Treasure Beach has once again demonstrated the power of unity. This is more than just a response to a tragedy—it’s a reaffirmation of the spirit of community tourism, where every person, whether local or visitor, is valued and protected. And in true Treasure Beach fashion, this moment of sorrow has been turned into a force for good, ensuring a safer, stronger future for all.
