TRELAWNY, Jamaica — American humanitarian Cynthia Baker, affectionately called ‘Blossom,’ was honoured for her philanthropy at a back-to-school treat hosted by the Harmony Youth and Sports Club at the Bounty Hall Primary School in her native community last week.

Baker started her philanthropic journey in Bounty Hall, Trelawny nearly three decades ago when she hosted her first children’s treat. Every summer since then she maintained the event where she provides scholarships for students in addition to school items.

“In 1998, I started when my kids said there were nothing material that they needed and so I decided to do a treat. I do a treat every summer since then and I do provide scholarships. Even if I am not here (in Jamaica) my niece Annette will stand in proxy for me and she gives out the items every year. We have never missed a year since 1998. This year I did five school scholarship plus an athletics scholarship make it six,” Baker told the Observer Online.

Over the years, Baker has also made several donations to individuals and State-run organisations, including the Falmouth Public General Hospital.

During a short opening ceremony which preceded the back-to-school treat that saw students not only receiving school items but also provided with refreshments and rides throughout the day, Harmony Club member Shane Crawford revealed that Baker reluctantly agreed to accept the award.

“When she was told she was reluctant saying she prefers to be on the back page,” Crawford revealed before reading a citation to Baker.

“We want to take a moment to let you know how much you are appreciated. You are a true angel. You are willing to give so much of yourself. We the community, appreciate you,” Crawford, who was among the diaspora members who flew in for the homecoming celebrations, said.

Baker expressed her appreciation for the acknowledgement of her benevolence over the years.

“I appreciate it. My ultimate goal is to see these young people shine and come to adopt what I have been doing,” she said, adding that she also appreciated the show of unity among the community members.

Retired educators Rebecca James and Merona Solomon were also awarded during the opening ceremony.