Saint Lucian-born and international recording and reggae performer Taj Weekes over the Christmas holidays continued his philanthropy work here through his “They Often Cry Out” (TOCO) foundation. On Saturday December 20th Weekes and a team of volunteers including Dr. Stephen King and Dr. Bird of RISE Saint Lucia Inc., teamed up with the Boka group for the annual Christmas party. This time around Taj and his team brought the good cheer to children on the West coast namely Canaries, Anse la Raye and Belvedere. “This is something we do every year, bringing something joyful and positive to underprivileged children here all in the spirit of goodwill,” Weekes said. “This year we endeavored to not only have a party for around 320 children but to also provide them with a healthy meal and try to engender in them a sense of well being,” he added.
In the end over 400 children showed up including some parents and guardians and according to Weekes they were all attended to and all of the children received gifts. “Since diabetes is always something that is at the forefront of our minds, given the alarming statistics here in Saint Lucia, we gave the children meals and treats with no artificial sweeteners and colouring,” Weekes explained. Chef Robbie, we were told, prepared the meals. “We also ensure that the gifts are things that will keep the children active and so we brought down items such as balls, scooters and bikes,” he continued.
In attendance at the event was the MP for Anse la Raye/Canaries Desmond Long and the UWP leader Allen Chastanet. Representatives of the Boka group including CEO and founder John Kennedy were also present.
“Beyond the party and the gifts we just had a wonderful time with all of the children, playing games with them, singing and dancing and even rewarding those who had done well at school,” Weekes said.
He went on to thank Jet Blue, HTS and Valerie Albert, The Boka Group, Chef Robbie, Bill Mortley, the principals, teachers and parents for making the event a success.
Taj Weekes and TOCO will be back in Saint Lucia in March to lend their support to activities aimed at ending domestic abuse.
