SANDALS Foundation, which has recognised the intrinsic connection between a conducive environment and academic success, has once again demonstrated its commitment to uplifting communities by providing brand new bathroom facilities at Chalky Hill Primary School.

Volunteers from Sandals Dunn’s River and Sandals Royal Plantation also assisted in the installation of the toilets and urinals as well as tiling both the male and female bathrooms, giving them a fresh look.

The bathroom upgrade formed part of a transformative project for the Steer Town Community, which is being conducted as part of a three-year partnership between Sandals Foundation, Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) and Coca Cola LA. The initiative will be officially launched in November,

Christine Bahdaal McBean, principal of Chalky Hill Primary, in expressing her gratitude, said, “These new bathrooms are not just a physical upgrade, but a symbol of dignity and respect for our students. They deserve nothing but the best, and Sandals has exemplified that.”

Echoing McBean’s sentiments, a member of the Sandals Dunn’s River team – Chantel Bailey – commented that, “Contributing to the betterment of educational facilities like Chalky Hill Primary is not just a responsibility but a privilege. Every child deserves access to dignified amenities that inspire confidence and pride.”

In transforming the once mundane restroom spaces into havens of cleanliness and modernity, Sandals Dunn’s River and Royal Plantation have not only improved the physical infrastructure of Chalky Hill Primary but have also embarked on numerous visits to the school, imparting a profound sense of value and esteem upon its students. This initiative stands as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of community partnerships and the enduring impact of acts of kindness.

Jonelle Llewellyn, research associate at the VPA, commended the initiative and noted that the community efforts hold great potential.

“They encourage collaboration, social interactions, physical well-being, and a sense of belonging. They are places where seeds of hope, unity, and continuity are sown, blossoming into the very fabric of peaceful communities,” she said.