Lucan Chambers not ‘laying’ idle - Mattress maker hopes to expand business

Lucan Chambers knows how to 'tun him hand mek fashion'.

When THE WEEKEND STAR visited him at his workshop in downtown Kingston recently, he was busy turning his breadfruit on a fire outside, after which he went to check on his saltfish that was being boiled in a cheese tin on a hot plate made from a paint can.

It is that creativity that sees him making a living for himself and his small family by making mattresses.

Chambers' business place is located just beside an abandoned building on Pechon Street.

After serving an 11-year prison sentence for gun charges, the 40-year-old decided to put his talent to use and went back to a life of making mattresses.

Currently, he supplies at least 11 store owners in the downtown area, and says his clientele could be bigger if he had adequate resources.

CHANGE MY LIFE

"When I came out of prison, I decided to change my life. I was making mattresses before I go to prison so when I came out I went back to that trade because is something I like doing. I tried to get a loan so I could get a better machine but no one is granting me any. All I want is just a little help so I can make my business better," he said.

Emmanuel hails from West Prospect in Bog Walk, St Catherine, but says he spends most of his days inside his workshop that is constructed of palettes.

"I used to be on Harbour Street but I didn't have the money to pay rent. I have a wife and child so I couldn't make because of that, I didn't provide for them. So I just build up this little place and start do business," he said.

He said that he looks forward to owning a tape edge machine but lacks the funds to purchase the equipment.

"That would make me work faster but even if I can't buy it, once I get the material that I need, I will be okay. My heart's desire is to own my own store. Once business turn over, I can pay my rent. I want to make use of my young days because I have the strength now so I want to work now and make use of my life," he said.

Persons wishing to assist Chambers may contact him at 876-391-1856.