Sandals Foundation kicks off annual Christmas treats across the Caribbean

Thursday, December 15, 2011

MONTEGO BAY, St James — The Sandals Foundation and Hasbro Inc., one of the world's leading toy manufacturers and valued partner for Beaches Resorts, have joined forces to bring Christmas cheer to the Caribbean's children.

The Sandals Foundation's annual Christmas treats kicked off in grand style with over 70 students of the Roehamton Basic School in rural St James, receiving an early visit from Santa last week Thursday.

The treat represented the first of over 60 holiday events scheduled to take place throughout Jamaica and the Caribbean in the coming weeks.

These activities will be held in the parishes of Kingston, St James, Hanover, St Ann, St Mary and Westmoreland and across the islands of Saint Lucia, Turks & Caicos; the Bahamas and Antigua.

As part of the initiative, the Sandals Foundation will be reaching out to schools, community institutions and infirmaries over the festive period, which will see community members and over 10,000 children receiving toys and being treated to luncheons and dinners.

Sandals' Public Relations Manager for the St James region Khadine Daley, who along with volunteers including resort guests and staff were on hand to share festive treats and Christmas cake, as well as engage in reading activities during the treat held at the Roehampton Basic School.

The institution's principal June Patterson expressed gratitude for the event.

"We are delighted to have this new relationship with the Sandals Foundation. Usually in the rural areas, we are forgotten and these Christmas gifts are a blessing for us. This annual event is a blessing for many families across the Caribbean and we are thankful," she said.

Meanwhile, Heidi Clarke, Director of Programmes at the Sandals Foundation has underscored the significance of the treats that are being undertaken leading up to Christmas Day.

"The holidays can be a difficult time and it's our responsibility to be there for our neighbours, for our communities, to help make a difference and bring a smile to those who may otherwise not have a reason to enjoy the holiday season. Whether it is giving a toy to a child who would normally go without or sharing a special lunch with the elderly, the Sandals Foundation is committed to bring cheer to those less fortunate," she explained.