FOR some wards of the State and underserved children in Jamaica, starting the new school year in September will be much easier.

This is because scores of people within the Jamaican Diaspora came together on Saturday at the Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO) summer soiree in Queens, New York, USA, and raised US$17,500 to provide scholarships for these children, surpassing their target of US$15,000.

Last year, the organisation raised US$20,000 at the summer soiree and was able to provide scholarships, valued at US$5,000 each, for less fortunate students

The event is an annual fund-raiser, held at the home of Dalbert and Vilma Daley, which uses raffle tickets and donations — proceeds of which benefit the philanthropic projects of COJO, including the provision of bursaries and scholarships to students as well as equipment and learning aids to children’s homes in Jamaica.

COJO is the brainchild of Gary Williams.

Williams told the Jamaica Observer that exceeding this year’s target was comforting and reason for hope.

He, however, appealed to those who are still able to give to do so by visiting ht tp://www.cojokids.org/ and donating, to make more scholarships possible.

Meanwhile, Williams used the opportunity to remind people to never forget to “pay it forward”.

“You have to give to get and once you’re in a position to help others less fortunate then do so willingly,” he said.

The summer soiree featured emerging and established fashion designers such as Moshood Creations, Signature Closet Boutique and celebrated Jamaica/New York-based Courtney Washington, all of whose pieces were on display in a mini fashion show.

Entertainment was provided by Rick Dalgetty & Tropical Rhythms band and a cultural presentation, featuring Kumina dance moves was done by D’Oro Dance Ensemble.

The event was also sponsored by JetBlue Airways, a consistent sponsor of COJO fund-raising events, which along with providing scholarships, also provide mentorship opportunities and upgrades for educational facilities in at-risk communities in Jamaica.

The mission of COJO is to help improve the health, education and general well-being of less fortunate children. Since its inception in 1994, COJO has dedicated its resources — human and financial — to help make a difference in the lives of underserved children in Jamaica and the United States of America.

— Kimberley Hibbert