Sandals hosts holiday treat for 400 children

The Sandals Foundation and staff from Sandals South Coast Resort this week hosted a holiday party for 400 children still reeling from Hurricane Melissa.

On December 18 pupils from Culloden Infant, Kings Primary, Petersville Primary and the Whitehouse Early Childhood Institute gathered at the resort’s football field for music, art, storytelling, craft, games and treats. Santa and his elves provided entertainment, while Sesame Workshop characters Elmo, Cookie Monster and Abby Cadabby led psychosocial activities designed to help children express emotions. Families received workbooks to aid coping and recovery.

The event concluded with the distribution of toys donated by Canadian and American firms Spin Master, Jazwares and The Toy Foundation.

“It has been a tough few weeks for families in Whitehouse, but nothing should eliminate the magic of the holiday season and giving our young ones a moment of pure joy,” said Heidi Clarke, executive director of the Sandals Foundation.

“Children are a major focus of our recovery efforts, from our commitment to rebuilding damaged schools to ensuring they continue to feel supported, safe, and uplifted. This event is our way of sharing with families that they are loved, supported, and surrounded by people who care deeply about their happiness and wellbeing.”

The foundation will partner with Food For the Poor, Rainforest Foundation, the Ministry of Health and Wellness and others to help distribute 18,000 toys in affected parishes.

Toys will be distributed across the parishes of Hanover, Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, and St James, targeting communities and families that have suffered significant losses during the passage of Hurricane Melissa, Mark Khouri, executive vice-president and chief operating officer at Food For the Poor added.