August 23, 2024
This Week’s HIGHLIGHTS
Community Updates and
Dear Readers,
We are excited to bring you this week’s updates and new opportunities within our vibrant community.
The Jamaica Indepenence Church Servicei is coming up this Sunday. Bring your family, bring your friends and Join the Consulate General and fellow community members at the New Jerusalem Worship Center. We look forward to worshiping with you on this special occasion.
Coming up in September, we have the two exciting events. The American Friends of Plie for the Arts will host their Gala on September 14 and the Friends of Mustard Seed Communities will host their 33rd Annual Luncheon on September 21st. Both of thise are worthy causes and we hope you will go out and support them.
Stay tuned for these and more happenings in our community. We are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected.
We are committed to keeping you informed and connected.
Warm regards,
Chris Benjamin Community Relations Officer Consulate General of Jamaica, New York
THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF JAMAICA
HOSTS INDEPENDENCE CHURCH
SERVICE IN QUEENS: A CELEBRATION OF UNITY AND LOVE
New York, NY — The Consulate General of Jamaica in New York is pleased to invite all members of the Jamaican diaspora and friends of Jamaica to the Jamaica Independence Church Service, a cornerstone event in the annual celebration of our nation’s rich heritage and culture. The service will take place at the New Jerusalem Worship Center in Jamaica, Queens, on Sunday, August 25, 2024, starting at 4:00 PM.
This year marks Jamaica’s 62nd year of independence, and we are excited to celebrate this milestone with a special service dedicated to the theme, “One Love to the World.”
Consul General Wilson, in anticipation of this joyous occasion, shared, “Our independence celebration is not only a reflection of our proud history but also a reaffirmation of the values that unite us as a people. The theme ‘One Love to the World’ reminds us of our responsibility to share the spirit of love, peace, and unity with the world. I encourage everyone to come out, worship, and celebrate the enduring bond that ties us together as Jamaicans.”
The Jamaica Independence Church Service is a time for thanksgiving and community, a moment where we can all pause to reflect on the journey of our beloved nation and to celebrate the cultural and spiritual heritage that defines us. Whether you are a long-time member of the Jamaican diaspora or a friend of our vibrant culture, this service is an opportunity to experience the warmth and spirit that make Jamaica truly special.
As we prepare for this significant event, we look forward to welcoming you with open arms. Join us in this celebration of love, faith, and national pride. Together, let’s make this 62nd anniversary one to remember!
For further details, please contact the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York.
Come, celebrate with us!
Weekend Recommendations: Embrace Our Worship
This weekend, dive into the vibrant Caribbean culture with events happening in New York City and Philadelphia. Whether you’re in Queens or Brooklyn, there’s something special for everyone. Here’s a guide to making the most of your weekend.
Assemblywoman Monique Chandler-Waterman Pre-Labor Day Fundraiser
• Date: Saturday, August 24, 2024
• Time: Starting at 3:00 PM
• Location: Garden 54, 314 East 54th Street, Brooklyn
Details: Join Consul General Wilson and other honorees at this important event. This fundraiser supports the community and sets the tone for the Labor Day festivities.
Jamaica Independence Church Service
• Date: Sunday, August 27, 2024
• Time: 4:00 PM
• Location: New Jerusalem Worship Center, 122-05 Smith Street, Jamaica, NY
Come out and be blessed as we pray for Jamaica and Jamaicans at home and abroad. This service is a beautiful way to connect with the community and celebrate Jamaica’s heritage on this the 62nd year of independence.
This weekend is brimming with opportunities to connect with the community, celebrate heritage, and uplift your spirit. Whether you’re joining the Pre-Labor Day Fundraiser hosted by Assemblywoman Monique ChandlerWaterman or attending the Jamaica Independence Church Service, there’s no better time to embrace the vibrant culture and unity that defines us. These events offer more than just entertainment—they’re moments to give back, reflect, and come together as one.
Don’t let the weekend slip away! Step out, secure your spot, and immerse yourself in the joy, music, and meaningful celebrations that await.
Let’s make this weekend one to remember!
33rd Annual Friends of Mustard Seed Benefit Luncheon to Honor Late Philanthropist
Daphne Mahoney
Mustard Seed Communities, a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable populations in Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, is proud to announce the 33rd Annual New York Benefit Luncheon.
The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at 78 Wildwood Drive, Dix Hills, New York, USA.
This year's luncheon will honor the late Daphne Mahoney, a beloved philanthropist and community leader born in Kingston, Jamaica. After migrating to the United States, Daphne started an organization dedicated to raising funds for the care of children and adults with disabilities in Jamaica, Friends of Mustard Seed. As the organization’s chair, Daphne hosted the Annual New York Benefit Luncheon for the past 33 years, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Mustard Seed Communities. Daphne passed away in June 2024, and this event will celebrate her legacy and lifelong commitment to serving others with humility and joy.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Time: 1 - 6 p.m.
Location: 78 Wildwood Drive, Dix Hills, NY, 11746
Tickets: $110 if purchased before September 6, 2024; $125 after September 6, 2024
Attendees can look forward to an afternoon filled with entertainment and fellowship, including a live band, a fashion show, and an art exhibition showcasing local talent. Opportunities to win unique items and experiences will be offered in an auction as well as a 50/50 raffle. Food and beverages will be available, and there will be special giveaways for all attendees.
All proceeds from the event will support Mustard Seed Communities' ongoing work to care for children and adults with disabilities who have been abandoned. This luncheon is a chance for the community to come together, celebrate Daphne Mahoney’s legacy, and contribute to a cause that she held dear.
About Mustard Seed Communities: Mustard Seed Communities is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to caring for the most vulnerable populations. With locations in Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, Mustard Seed Communities provides lifelong care to children and adults with disabilities, children affected by HIV, and other marginalized groups. The organization also supports local communities through education, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture programs.
Important Notice: Complete the Online C5 Form to Ensure Smooth Entry into Jamaica
Access the Form and Avoid Potential Delays and Denied Boarding.
As you prepare for your trip to the beautiful island of Jamaica, there is one critical task you must complete: filling out the online Immigration/Customs Declaration (C5) Form at enterjamaica.gov.jm. Failure to complete this form may result in you being denied boarding for your flight to Jamaica.
Why You Must Complete the C5 Form Online
Submitting the C5 form online is not just a convenience—it is essential for ensuring a smooth entry into Jamaica. Completing the form before your departure will significantly reduce waiting times at immigration and customs, allowing you to begin your trip without unnecessary delays.
Consequences of Not Submitting the C5 Form
Please be aware that travelers who fail to complete the C5 form online before their departure risk being denied boarding for their flight to Jamaica. To avoid this, it is imperative that you fill out the form as soon as possible.
Benefits of Early Submission
By submitting your C5 form in advance, you can take advantage of the dedicated kiosks at the airport in Jamaica, where your pre-submitted information will be instantly recognized. This streamlined process allows for a quick and seamless entry, saving you valuable time and ensuring a stress-free start to your visit.
Complete Your Forms Early
You can fill out the C5 form up to 30 days before your arrival in Jamaica. This foresight will help you avoid any potential delays, especially during peak travel times when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.
On-the-Spot Form Completion Provisions
For those who have not completed the form before traveling, provisions are available to fill out the C5 form upon arrival in Jamaica. The Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) provides complimentary Wi-Fi and tablets in the immigration area for your convenience. However, to avoid any complications, we strongly recommend completing the form online prior to your trip.
Take Action Now
Visit www.enterjamaica.gov.jm today and complete your C5 form online. This step is crucial to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable entry into Jamaica. Prioritize this in your travel preparations to enjoy a warm Jamaican welcome without delays!
JAMAICA NATURE OF THE
JACANA is Jamaica’s leading wellness brand, bringing all natural, organic botanical care solutions from farm to you.
We believe that nature has the best answers. That’s why every JACANA product is made from plants grown on our regenerative, 100-acre farm in the mountains of St. Ann. We are committed to producing the world’s most natural products, empowering and enhancing the body, mind and spirit of not only those who use it, but also those who grow it.
Our ‘plant in a bottle’ approach creates authentic natural wellness products for better body & mind. Let nature love you and provide you with natural solutions to the wear and tear of modern day life.
Understanding Emergency Certificates
It is not an Emergency Passport
As we navigate the complexities of international travel, it’s crucial to distinguish between different travel documents. One such document that often causes confusion is the Emergency Certificate (EC). The Consulate General of Jamaica, New York, aims to clarify the purpose, application process, and specific use cases of the Emergency Certificate (EC) for our fellow Jamaicans.
What is an Emergency Certificate (EC)?
An Emergency Certificate (EC) is a one-way travel document specifically designed for travel to Jamaica. Unlike a passport, it is not generally recognized by other territories because it lacks a barcode and an expiry date. Once in Jamaica, the holder of an EC must apply for a passport renewal or replacement. In special circumstances, an EC may be issued to facilitate travel both to and from Jamaica.
Categories of Emergencies
The Emergency Certificate (EC) is intended for use in genuine emergencies. Proof of such emergencies is required for the application process. Typical emergencies include:
• Death of a Relative: Applicants must provide a death certificate or burial order.
• Serious Illness: A letter from a doctor or hospital is required to substantiate the medical emergency.
• Application Requirements
• National who is traveling and has lost documents and need to return home.
• Other situations which may be dtermined on acase by case basis.
To apply for an Emergency Certificate (EC), applicants must provide the following:
• Last issued passport
• Completed Passport application form (notarized if submitting via post)
• Two photographs (one notarized if submitting via post)
• Flight itinerary detailing airline, flight date, time, and flight number
• Original birth certificate
• Original marriage certificate, divorce decree, or deed poll (if applicable)
• Valid government-issued photo ID (notarized copy if submitting via post)
• Detailed statement regarding the loss of the passport, if the document is unavailable
• For minors, a notarized copy of the parent’s valid ID and original name change documents (if applicable)
• Proof of emergency (death certificate, burial order, or letter from a doctor)
Submission Process
In-person Submissions:
Applicants must email the Consulate General of Jamaica, New York, to schedule an appointment. Approval is required before visiting.
Mailed-in Applications:
In addition to a self-addressed prepaid envelope, applicants must notify the Consulate General by email. Mailed-in applicants may also be subject to interviews by a Consular Officer.
Processing Time and Approval
Effective from July 22, 2022, the processing time for all Emergency Certificate (EC) applications ranges between 5 to 10 working days. The Consulate General reserves the right to request additional documents, which may extend processing time. The issuance of Emergency Certificates is subject to approval by the Consulate General.
Cost and Payment
The cost of an Emergency Certificate (EC) is USD 100, covering administrative, consular, and courier fees. Payment methods are:
In-person: Cash or debit card (with a 4% surcharge)
Mailed-in: Money order payable to the “Jamaican Consulate” or “Consulate General of Jamaica”
Important Reminders
The Consulate General of Jamaica, New York, advises all Jamaicans to keep their travel documents up-to-date. Non-compliance with EC application requirements can result in inconveniences for which the Consulate will not be responsible.
For further information or clarification, please contact the Consulate General of Jamaica, New York.
300 E 42nd Street New York, NY 10017 https://congenjamaica-ny.org 212-935-9000
