Fifty-five mothers who gave birth during the Yuletide at the Victoria Jubilee Maternity Hospital and at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) were given baskets for their babies on Christmas Day by 20 Kiwanis clubs that make up Division 23 East of the organisation.

The Kiwanians also serenaded the mothers—50 at Victoria Jubilee and five at the UHWI, both located in the Corporate Area — and fathers present with carols and offered words of encouragement and inspiration.

It marked 13 years of`the initiative, dubbed Baby Love, which also provides an opportunity for Kiwanis members to engage with the staff and administration of the maternity wards to understand the needs they have and to discuss ways in which Kiwanians could be of assistance.

Saundra Bailey, Lieutenant Governor for Division 23 East, reminded mothers and fathers that, “These little ones, the life you cradle in your arms, are gifts from God, full of talent, full of potential, and we must love and cherish them, as they represent hope for our future. Mothers and fathers, you are not alone on this journey. It takes a village to raise a child—so be open to the support of family, friends, and the wider community.”

During the period leading up to Christmas, Kiwanians across the division contribute various items—baby clothing, blankets, lotions, soaps, nappies, wipes, books, and toys—for babies and mothers and present these gifts, packed with love, on Christmas morning to them. Many sponsors also come on board, providing much-needed items.