Citing to what he says is the current economic climate, veteran dancehall entertainer Capleton has put on hold plans to stage his annual St Mary Mi Come From stage show in St Mary.

Instead, the philanthropic artiste, who released his latest album Heights of Fire on June 26, will host a back-to-school treat at the Port Maria Primary school on August 5, which will benefit residents from surrounding communities within St Mary.

In an interview with Observer Online on Tuesday, Capleton explained the decision to host the back-to-school initiative.

“Well, as you know, education is one of the keys to a brighter future for the country. So, we want to have the children going back to school with a positive attitude, give them some fun and help them with some of the school supplies they need to function well in school and to also ease some of the burden off their parents,” said Capleton. “I feel like the country has not fully recovered from Hurricane Melissa and with the rising inflation, I feel like this year would not be the best time to keep the show.”

A lot is in store for children attending the back-to-school treat.

“They will receive several educational gifts from my St Mary Mi Come From Foundation which will include books, bags and writing material. We will make it a fun day for them with games, rides, food and different treats,” Capleton shared while stating that the elderly will not be left out of the proceedings.

“Well, the elders paved the way for us, so we will be presenting them with gifts and items that they need. We also want them to enjoy the funday as well. We want to treat them with the dignity that they deserve and let them know that they are appreciated.”