JAMAICAN international footballer Leon Bailey is among a number of individuals and private sector interests supporting a series of more than a dozen back-to-school treats across St Andrew North Central, through a coordinated effort led by Member of Parliament Delano Seiveright.

More than 1,500 children are expected to benefit from the treats which have already been held on Mannings Hill Road, Donmair/Common, Cassava Piece and Long Lane, with more scheduled across the constituency through the end of August and into early September.

Other treats are scheduled for Cameron Lane, Park Lane, 85 Red Hills Road, Boonan Gully, Lady Huggins, Mason Bush, 100 Lane, Shortwood Avenue, and Miller Heights/Ward Lane.

Bailey supported the Cassava Piece back-to-school treat, undertaken in partnership with the Cassava Piece Youth Upliftment Group and community volunteers.

According to Seiveright, he has been working with several new community groups while reaching out to business interests to mobilise school supplies, refreshments and other assistance for children.

Elizabeth Scott (left) and Joline White embracing the occasion at one of the St Andrew North Central back-to-school treats.

Seiveright told the Jamaica Observer that the treats are deliberately being spread across communities rather than concentrated in a single major event, allowing local groups to take the lead in shaping activities for their children. The treats combine school supplies and educational support with food, refreshments, entertainment and family activities, while providing an opportunity for residents, volunteers, businesses and other stakeholders to work together.

In Donmair/Common, where children and families gathered at Common Sense Square on Saturday, community leader Shenae Fisher said the initiative was warmly received.

“The children and parents were genuinely excited. Back-to-school can be challenging for families, so this provided practical support while bringing the community together around our children. It lets them know that their community is behind them,” Fisher said.

The Donmair/Common activity was undertaken in partnership with the Donmair/Common Upliftment Youth Club, working alongside residents and supporters.

From left: Charmanique Hinds, Summer Stone, Michka Daley, and Britany Coubry of the Cassava Piece Youth Upliftment group, showing some of the backpacks which were gifted to children at the treat in their community.

In Cassava Piece, community representative Aisha Stone said the involvement of community groups and outside supporters helped make the activity especially meaningful.

“The children were excited and the parents appreciated the support. It showed our young people that people believe in them and want to see them succeed. Every bit of assistance also helps families prepare for school,” Stone said.

Seiveright said the programme demonstrates what can be achieved by connecting community and youth organisations with businesses and individuals willing to assist.

“The community groups know their communities best. My role is to help bring people and resources together so we can reach as many children as possible,” Seiveright said.

He noted that the activities are also part of a broader effort to strengthen community organisations and encourage greater participation by young people in positive community initiatives.

Member of Parliament for St Andrew North Central Delano Seiveright (left) and head of the and Superintendent Randy Sweeney, head of the St Andrew North Police Division, take time out for a photo at one of the several back-to-school treats being organised by Seiveright in the constituency. 

Seiveright said sustained partnerships among residents, the private sector, law enforcement and other stakeholders are particularly important in communities where greater social intervention and opportunities for young people are needed.

He also acknowledged the private-sector companies, businesses, individuals, and Superintendent Randy Sweeney and the team from the St Andrew North Police Division, who have responded to requests for assistance, particularly those with connections to St Andrew North Central and its communities.

“A lot of people and organisations have quietly stepped forward to help. I am grateful to every supporter, including Leon Bailey, our private sector partners, Superintendent Sweeney and his team, and especially the community and youth groups and volunteers doing the work on the ground,” Seiveright said.

He added that while back-to-school expenses can place pressure on households, the programme is also intended to send children a broader message about education, discipline, ambition and community support.