Season brightened for Canterbury kids

Barrington Flemming, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:The voices of children joyfully singing Christmas carols echoed last week in the community of Canterbury in Montego Bay as they were fêted by the St James Chapter of the Jamaica Red Cross, marked the beginning of what is poised to be an annual affair.

Edna Facey, director of the St James Red Cross, told Western Focus that while the organisation had given assistance to the adults in the community for various reasons, it had not previously pursued a programme geared to the children of Canterbury.

"We are happy to be sharing some of the joy of the season with these wonderful children," said Facey. "It is a joy to see them and to share what we have with them. I am pleased that Mr Aubrey Stewart, who incidentally is the junior mayor for Montego Bay, is actually here sharing with us."

During the much-appreciated function, the children engaged in ring games, a question-and-answer session, and carolling. They were given gifts of toys, books, crayons and a number of rubber sandals.

Stewart said he was happy for the opportunity to share a special moment with the children and he had the opportunity to play Santa for the day, handing out gifts and sharing a kind word with the little ones.

"It is always good to share with children. They are special and we have to ensure that they are taken care of and protected," said Stewart.

The other members of the junior council who were in attendance supporting the project included Khedine Cameron; Joy Odusanya; Garenzo Topping, Red Cross president for Cornwall College; and Red Cross Youth volunteers Mandi and Michael Malcolm.