SCORES of children in Hurricane Melissa-ravaged south-western parishes were given a Christmas lift by Lifespan Company which donated several toys to them.

The donation was done in partnering with FunKtional Fitness during stops at the Sandy Bay Health Centre in Hanover; Cambridge, Montego Bay, St James; Bounty Hall Town Square in Trelawny; and McField, Westmoreland.

Lifespan’s contributions also supported VantageOne Group’s ‘Delivering Hope to Communities’ initiative, a series of pop-up events held from December 4 to 23 aimed at uplifting people hard hit by the October 28 Hurricane Melissa through health checks, mental health support, games, entertainment, and refreshments.

These pop-up events features comprehensive wellness screenings, psychological consultations, kids’ play zones with ring games and hula hoops, DJ competitions, and movie screenings.

According to Karonna Atkins, brand manager at Lifespan, the toy donations targeted younger children, filling critical gaps in emotional support amid ongoing recovery challenges in the western parishes.

“At Lifespan,we recognise the profound impact of Hurricane Melissa on our communities’ mental and emotional well-being, particularly for children,” said Atkins.

“Through these toy donations we seek to restore joy and hope this Christmas, reinforcing Lifespan’s commitment to a resilient, holistic recovery for our communities,” added Atkins.

Lifespan Brand Manager Karonna Atkins (left) shares a moment with FunKtional Fitness’ Cecilia Murray as they prepare a package during the Christmas toy and relief partnership activity.

Carl Webb is presented with a relief package by FunKtional Fitness’ Cecile Murray during the community distribution exercise while other residents look on