More than 200 children in the Samacan community of Waterhouse, St Andrew, benefited from a back-to-school treat staged on Sunday by Tank-Weld Metals Limited’s Managing Director Bruce Bicknell.

The children were gifted backpacks filled with essential school supplies, along with other goodies.

Bicknell said the event, which was held in this section of Waterhouse for the first time, is part of his company’s long-term commitment to assisting needy families in the community.

“Investing in the future of our children is one of the most profound commitments we can make. Every child deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of their background,” said Bicknell. “Helping poor kids is not just an act of kindness, it’s a responsibility we all share. When we lift up those who are struggling we elevate their entire community.”

“Life can sometimes present challenges that feel overwhelming — and I understand that you may face difficulties that others might not — but remember, the strength to overcome those challenges lies within you. Every great achievement starts with a simple step, a dream, and the determination to push through,” he added.

Actavia Watson, president of Seaward Drive Police Youth Club which serves the Samacan community, expressed her gratitude for the assistance provided by Tank-Weld. “This means a lot, because I know that a lot of parents are struggling to provide for these kids — and many of these parents have more than one child — so this means a lot to us at the club and in the community,” Watson said.

“This is definitely a motivation for the children to see someone like Mr Bicknell and his company, Tank-Weld, caring for the community. It will give them the encouragement to continue pursuing their education, to keep being themselves, and to continue doing well academically,” she added.

Meanwhile, Bicknell also presented elderly residents from the community with grocery supplies, courtesy of his company.

Tank-Weld Metals’ Managing Director Bruce Bicknell presents school supplies to Kaira Daley (left), Jameer Bennett (right forefront) and Jahzire Jacob during the back-to-school treat hosted by Tank-Weld Metals in the Samacan community of Waterhouse, St Andrew, on Sunday.

Tank-Weld Metals’ Managing Director Bruce Bicknell pauses for a photo with Joan Campbell (left) and Nadine Ewan after they received back-to-school supplies for their children from him on Sunday at a back-to-school treat staged by the company in Waterhouse, St Andrew.

Deshawn Burke controls a ball he received from Tank-Weld Metals on Sunday while Schanoy Neil (left) and Okelle Bogle look on during a back-to-school treat hosted by the company in Waterhouse on Sunday.