DEVON Campbell, owner of Twelve to Twelve (12:12) Day Lounge in Drax Hall, St Ann, is a dedicated business owner actively engaged in the entertainment scene while equally committed to making life better for his neighbours.

For years parents in Linton Park have not had to worry about shopping for back-to-school essentials as Campbell has made it his duty to help them meet many of their children’s needs.

“This is more than just a treat for the community, this is my own little charity to my people who I hold so close and dear to my heart,” Campbell told the Jamaica Observer on Sunday as he hastily packed bags of supplies to distribute at the latest staging of his back-to-school treat.

The mood was one of excitement, joy, and gratitude as people made their way to Campbell’s late grandmother’s residence to participate in actives of the day.

“I feel proud when I do stuff like this for my community and people look forward to see me every year. When I’m in Linton Park I’m home and this is something I will continue to do over the years once I have the resources,” said Campbell

He pointed out that he understands the importance of lending a helping hand as he was also on the receiving end as a child in the predominantly farming community.

Campbell catered to children of all ages, distributing more than 300 school bags, books, and stationery. In addition food and drinks were prepared by community, with disc jocks keeping the people entertained.

The residents, who were gifted with back-t0-school supplies, said Campbell must be applauded for his efforts.

“We are really grateful because this is what most parents look towards yearly.Some of them have like seven kids and they can’t really afford it so this gives them a push for the school year,” said Joeann Brown, a resident of Linton Park.

Campbell was also hailed as genuine and kind, and was applauded for his decision to remember his roots and keep his people close to his heart.

“We don’t see things like this happening here often but I think it is very good because the children need it, no matter how small it is. When people give back it helps a lot of students to feel motivated, to want to go to school, because many youths get hope from this and maybe, in the future, they, too, can give back when they are able to,” said another resident Sasheeena Lewis.

In the meantime, Kimley McIntosh, general manager at Twelve to Twelve Day Lounge, told the Observer that, “Devon is always invested in giving back and ready to give a helping hand whenever necessary and it feels amazing to know that I can be a part of something like this. Giving back is always a good thing and to see the smiles on the kids’ faces and how happy they are to receive the gifts.”

Owner of 12:12 Day Lounge Devon Campbell (right) is about to present back-to-school supplies to this mother and child. Campbell said it warms his heart to be able to give back to the community in which he grew up, Linton Park, St Ann. (Photos: Akera Davis)

Several children collecting back-to-school supplies during the 12:12 Day Lounge treat on Sunday.