Jamaica Red Cross honours socially conscious "birthday boy"

The average boy, asked what he wants for his eighth birthday, might reply toys, a birthday party or a visit to Disneyland.

When Omari Gillespie was asked what he wanted, his reply was for the hungry people on the streets to be fed. His wish, however, was not to come through just yet as his grandmother died the same year and the money was used to bury her.

The next year, Omari’s birthday wish remained the same, but then his grandfather died. The following year, his wish once again was the same, however violence escalated in the community where he lived with his mother, and they had to move and stay with friends.

When his birthday came around this year, he had the same wish. However his mother explained to him that the money she had was being saved to pay the rent so they could move from their volatile community. Omari’s response”Mommy, use it. Something bad is always going to happen but God will provide.”

Moved by his undying faith and persistence, Omari’s mother, Elesha McKoy and the rest of his family started putting the plans in place for his wish to come through. The outreach eventually took place on May 1, Omari’s 11th birthday, in the areas of Union Square and Hagley Park Road.

And even then Omari’s concern did not stop. He had particular interest in ensuring that children were part of his outreach. Even the toys ands clothes he has received will go towards the children who are less fortunate than he is.

The Jamaica Red Cross (JRC) honoured Omari July 4 at a Graduation service held at the school he attends, Duhaney Park Primary School.

“We believe that Omari epitomises the true spirit of volunteerism. He has shown that you can make a difference regardless of your age, status, creed or resources,” JRC Director General Yvonne Clarke remarked. “He is a living example of how people can transform their concerns into action and so we feel we need to recognize him for his efforts.”

His mother notes he has always been this way. “I remember when he was three years old,” she recollects, “we were traveling on a bus and I was sitting with him and he saw an old lady and asked me to get up and give the old lady the seat.”

When asked why he wanted to help these people Omari replied, “I’m a member of the Red Cross and I learnt that people need help.” He is currently in Grade 5 at his school, where he is actively involved in the Red Cross link there.

The JRC has links (Red Cross clubs) in numerous basic, primary and secondary schools across the island which allows young people to participate in various activities aimed at increasing civil awareness with the main goal being to “serve one another”.

Omari added that his compassion grew when he saw people in need. “I always see people on the streets begging money and cleaning car windows, with their clothes looking dirty and I always want to try to help them.” His ambition? To become a doctor, but he also wishes to be a professional runner for Jamaica.