Mizzou football took part in a week-long Mission trip to Harmons, Jamaica, from May 18 – 23.
While there, the 60 members of Mizzou football pitched in to help the community by building homes, laying foundations for future housing, and working on an addition to the local health center.
"I was just humbled and blessed to know that I was able to help out and make a change," said Jalen Catalon. "I know they have to do very hard work day-in and day-out and they embrace it. They love it. Because they know that's their way of surviving. While I'm doing it to help, that's their way of staying alive. It doesn't get much better than that. That's the most inspiring thing. It helped me put things into perspective with football when I'm working out or when I'm doing things to prepare for the season, I can embrace the grind, because here in Harmons, it's what they do. They embrace the grind and just love each other because they know that love is what is going to keep this thing connected."
"During the season when things get hard, to be able to keep going and be able to lean on your teammates – that's what this community does," said Daniel Blood. "There are going to be different trials and tribulations, but you've got to continue going.
The trip took place after the conclusion of spring camp and before the start of summer workouts. It was the kind of experience that not only supports a community in need but also helps foster camaraderie and connection within a newly forming team.