They are flanked by other representatives from both organizations.
The Sandals Foundation has donated more than EC$16,000 to the Saint Lucia Crisis Center for the continuance of its educational support program, designed to improve the academic performance of children coming from challenging circumstances in the Castries Central area.
The contribution for the Afternoon Care and Extended Support (ACES) program comes on the heels of more than a year of collaboration between the two organizations in a bid to providing support to the less fortunate and to ensure that no child is disadvantaged.
Managing Director for the Center Antonia Jean said the Foundation’s support has provided the children with a more secured environment within which to work.
“The academic, social, physical and spiritual development became fully encompassed into the daily programs offered by staff and volunteers,” Jean said, adding, “Students are now engaged in sporting activities such as swimming and netball.”
Director of the Sandals Foundation Heidi Clarke said the decision to continue to support for the Saint Lucia Crisis Center was without challenge.
“The Crisis center has proven its unwavering commitment and dedication to the reduction and elimination of domestic violence in all forms and the guidance and support of young children in the community. We are proud to be associated with their cause,” Clarke said.
In the meantime, this latest cash injection in to the Center’s operation will also allow for the children to have the full services of a Social Worker and Counselor as well as a daily meal.
The number of children benefiting from the after school initiative has, according to the Center’s director, increased steadily over the past two years with the average daily attendance moving from 20 to 30 students between the ages of 6 and 16-years old.
“The SLCC is deeply indebted to the support of the Sandals Foundation and looks forward to a long lasting relationship,” Jean said.
— Sandals Foundation
