Despite enduring years of rude remarks and criticism, Jean Poyser has remained dedicated to collecting alms as part of the Salvation Army's annual Christmas kettle programme.

"Some people not nice at all, some of them pass and make ugly remarks," said Poyser, who had her pot set up outside the Scotia Centre headquarters in downtown Kingston.

The 66-year-old, who has been participating in the Christmas kettle drive for approximately 15 years, told The Gleaner she remains committed to the charity because she knows hundreds of people benefit from the initiative.

"I try not to allow the mean comments to bother me, because I know that what I am doing is helping others," Poyser added.

Bank not ideal for set up

A bank, to many, may seem like the ideal location to set up to collect money for charity but, according to Poyser, it's quite the contrary.

When The Gleaner met with Poyser around midday recently, only two people were observed dropping money in the kettle within a half-hour period.

"Dem hold dem pocket tight and pass yuh so fast you would think dem is Usain Bolt," Poyser said of some of the customers who transact business at the bank. But not everyone is holding on to their pockets. Poyser told The Gleaner there are many people who make donations almost every day.

"They give and give very generously," she said.

The Salvation Army's Jamaica branch has set a 10.2-million fund-raising target for November and December.