Students benefit from ‘Children in Need Fund’

Despite the global economic crisis, members of the Vincentian Diaspora in the UK are still contributing generously to the Children in Need Fund, which was established by St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ High Commissioner to London His Excellency Cenio Lewis.{{more}}

At a presentation ceremony held on Thursday, August 13, eighty financially disadvantaged primary and secondary school students were presented with monetary donations to help with the cost of new texts and uniforms for the upcoming academic year.

Organised in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Trade, the Children in Need Fund commenced in 2005, and, to date, has seen approximately 300 students benefit from the monetary contributions.

This year, substantial contributions came from Mohamed Menshawy, Honourary Consul in Egypt; H. E Wafic Said, SVG Permanent Representative to UNESCO; Ladd Winnsboro, President of the New London Association; Noel Crichton, Vincentian national; Reading Association, and the Men’s Christian Fellowship at Sands Seventh Day Adventist Church in High Wycombe, UK. In total, EC$32,000 was distributed to the students.

In brief remarks, urged the students (and their parents/guardians) to spend the money on necessities, and not on frivolous purchases. “I trust that you will use this money wisely!” Sir Louis also encouraged the students to do their best academically and not settle for mediocre grades. “Don’t be satisfied… with a pass… Aim for the highest! Some of you give up too easily…”

The students, who were grouped according to constituency, were presented with the money by their constituency representatives. E. Bernard John of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the parliamentary representatives had been asked to identify students within their constituencies who were in dire need of financial assistance.

Minister of Education Girlyn Miguel also gave brief remarks.(JSV)