Caring is sharing - Portland charity fetes the needy

PORT ANTONIO, Portland:

Charity group Change A Life Foundation (CALF) has fÍted dozens of persons living below the poverty line.

The special pre-Christmas change a life initiative was held on Friday at Friends Church in Port Antonio under the watchful eyes of CALF chairman and founder, Samantha Russell, who fought back the tears, especially when speaking about the importance of touching the lives of the underprivileged and less fortunate.

"Caring is sharing, especially with those who are in dire need," said Russell.

She added: "This group is all about sharing and giving back. It is a wonderful feeling and a joy to see the smile on the faces of those who have benefited from our donation over the years, and today is no different. CALF has always responded to the plights of the needy, and our overseas members and partners work tirelessly to ensure that we have the necessary funding to see to the needs of many.

"Today, our membership has grown significantly, which is why we are able to touch the lives of persons with varying needs. I am sure that what we do today will positively impact the lives of these beneficiaries, who are faced with many challenges. I am hoping that initiatives like this one will be replicated in other communities across Jamaica," she further stated.

CALF was founded in 2013 out of the personal desire of Russell, who is currently employed in the hospitality industry. Russell was driven to provide assistance to the needy, as a result of growing up in similar circumstances.

Among the recipients was 72-year-old Leroy Gray, who is visually impaired.