Who We Are

"We can't forget the land of our birth."

These words echo the quest of the BlessBackJamDown Missions. Our pursuit is to give back to the poor and those in need across the island nation of Jamaica. The aim of this organization is to be a beacon of hope to those who are less fortunate (persons of all ages). We seek to achieve this by creating lasting solutions to poverty and hunger for the homeless or those of low income households with the essential items they need to thrive.

— Our Mission

Non Profit Organization founded September 2020 with a mission to assist the less fortunate in Jamaica by providing food and clothing.

— Services Offered:

  • Clothing Provision
  • Personal Care Items
  • Serves hot meals weekly

We operate in Kingston, St. Catherine and St. Thomas.

Team

Sherlene Templeman, President

Founder of BBJD Missions, I was born in Kingston, Jamaica and migrated to the United States at 15 years old. I relocated for a better opportunity to support my mother who had health challenges, and also to help the rest of my family. I am the 5th of 6 siblings. Growing up in Jamaica was not easy for me. I watched my mother struggle as a single parent to provide the basics for her children. She took odd jobs to make ends meet. Food was scarce and I remember having to wait long periods of time for meals as I did not know when the next one would be. There were even days when I only had one meal for the day. At times, my aunt who lived in the country would provide us with food from her farm. I currently work with individuals with intellectual disabilities, and have been doing so for over 20 years. I am thankful that I am now in a position to be able to give back to those less fortunate than myself, more so, my fellow Jamaicans, as I stay true to my motto- Can’t forget the land of my birth! I have experienced food insecurity. I also know what it is like to be the recipient of second hand clothing that’s in poor shape. So it gives me great joy to know that someone will be assured of at least one prepared meal for the week through the BBJD Missions program, someone will be assured of proper clothing, someone will be assured of footwear, someone will be assured of food items. My faith is very important to me. I am a woman of God who believes in the power of prayer and that through Christ I can do all things. I am a dedicated and hard working person who doesn't allow obstacles to get in the way of my goals. I am married to Daniel Templeman and am mother to Preshus and Nathan. My hobbies include: listening to music, and traveling.

Preshus Carter, Vice president

I am the daughter of Sherlene and Vice president for Bless Back Jamdown Missions. It's my pleasure to be a part of this great mission. My mother has inspired me all my life. I admire how she has the heart to help and give her last. Growing up, I would see her passion in her giving back to the needy, whether here at home in Connecticut, or abroad in Jamaica. She would always prepare sandwiches, take it to the park and give to the homeless, while always encouraging them with a “Jesus loves you”. As I'm older, I see that I too am following in her footsteps in making a difference in a people’s lives. I'm blessed and want to continue to be a blessing to those who are less fortunate. My hobbies include: spending time with my cat named October, and being around my family.

Kerian Service, Secretary

I am Kerian Service, the secretary of BlessBackJamdown Missions Inc. I was born in and spent my formative years in Jamaica before migrating to the USA at 18yo. Upon my migration, I completed my tertiary education, in New York. When Sherlene asked me to come on board to share in her vision of giving back to the less fortunate in Jamaica, I was very excited. I have been and am truly blessed by God, and as such, I find it an honor to be a blessing to those in need. I enjoy seeing the smiles on people’s faces as they receive their hot meals, food supplies, clothing, shoes, or whatever it may be. The joy felt and the euphoria experienced is priceless. Hobbies include: watching reality TV, visiting museums

Jarona Jones, Treasurer

My name is Jarona Jones and I was born in Hartford and raised in New Haven, CT. I’m the treasurer of BBJD. I have always had a passion to help others. I’ve been exposed to deprivations in the past which has subsequently compelled me to become an asset to society by providing basic needs for individuals who are in need. I have worked as a caretaker for over 16 years. As such, I see the desperate need and value of empathy to others. My core values are my personal relationship with God, and through Him, my relationship with others. I enjoy spending time with my teenage son, family and friends.