The numbers were expected to come in at 100, but were a little short, as only approximately 65 children of the La Coix Maingot community turned up for the Helen Television System/Helen Folk Dancers annual children’s party. Held at the La Coix Maingot school on Saturday, December 19, the treat attracted a special group of recipients, children whose parents would otherwise not have been able to purchase gifts and host a party in their honour this festive season and boy, what wonderful gifts they received.

The event, the 14 annual to date, hosted by the two collaborators had for the second consecutive year received assistance from the US Army thanks to the efforts of Anthony Blackman, Public Affairs Specialist at the Embassy of the United States of America to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Acting as our liaison, Blackman introduced us to Major Ed “Marco” Harvey Deputy Chief, Military Liaison Office Barbados and Eastern Caribbean from whose generosity these specially selected children benefited. The smiles registered and in most cases plastered on their faces signified just how appreciative the recipients were.

As they queued patiently to receive their gifts selected off the shelves of M& C’s Drugstore, it was a pleasure to see the expression of gratitude. From colourful remote control helicopters and cars, spider man action figures, computers and other educational tools, board games and not forgetting the oh-so-popular Bratz and Barbie dolls, all delivered and presented by Santa Claus, they could not have asked for more. Plus all that ice cream, juice, cake and candy, musical chairs and dance contests. How can we forget that special style of dancing/gyrating unique to La Coix Maingot community. At the end of it all the boys and girls aged five to 10 all walked away, exhausted but happy to have been treated to some cheer this festive season.

HTS and the Helen Folk Dancers would like to express sincere thanks to all benefactors, particularly Major Ed Harvey and Anthony Blackman. Who can forget the contribution and first class service delivered by the manager of M&C Drugstore Fredrika Leon and her staff, who like last year went beyond the call of duty.

Thanks should also go to the teachers and parents of the students of the La Coix Maingot School for making this event a success. We were also fortunate this year to again receive toys from Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy, a regular contributor and partner of this project. A new contributor this year was the organization Lucian Power based in New York represented by Fred “oldfred” Actie and Theron Prudent, many thanks folks.

As a result of their generosity our project took on a new twist this year. We were able to continue the spirit of giving by donating toys to the Boys Training Centre, Council for the Disabled and the Blind welfare association. We are hoping to continue this trend next year 2010 with our partners at our side when we will visit yet another community to spread some good cheer to those in need.