A heartbreaking situation made a little easier … and a family formed along the way.

That was the outcome of a fundraising effort at the Barbados Community College’s Jean and Norma Holder Hospitality Institute, where staff and students came together to help IT Support Specialist Andrew Daniel, who lost his home earlier this year.

The Hotel PomMarine hosted nearly 80 people at a special luncheon, which included several of Mr. Daniel’s colleagues and the JNHHI’s corporate partners, a testament to the relationships he has developed throughout his career at the BCC.

The long-time staff member’s home was destroyed in a fire earlier this year, causing the faculty to rally around their colleague in his time of need, raising $8,000 in one night.

Not one to let time pass her by, one of the key organisers of the event was Hotel Operations tutor, Joy-Anne Tait-Taylor, who designed a buffet-style experience prepared by the college body and accompanied by the piano of well-known local artist Andre Daniel.

Mrs. Taitt-Taylor described how, upon hearing of the tragedy, staff donated their own money to help purchase food for the event, and business partners bought tickets for their workforce, ensuring the restaurant was packed come opening night.

The experience still fresh in his mind, Andrew described receiving the news that his house was ablaze as an emotional rollercoaster.

“It left me with a measure of emptiness, not sure where to go from there, how to pick up the pieces.”

Despite the turmoil he experienced, Andrew was beyond grateful for all the support he and his family had received, extending his heartfelt appreciation for all the kind words, prayers and donations.

“I cannot put into words the measure of support I felt from right here at the Barbados Community College and the entire, what I will call, my family, because that’s exactly how I feel about every member here.”