SDC treats Woodford Park children

Curtis Campbell, Gleaner Writer

Children of Woodford Park community in Kingston were treated by the Social Development Commission (SDC) last Wednesday. This treat is a part of their two-year-old annual charity programme.

Animated children were seen frolicking in a bounce-a-bout as the organisers prepared snacks and interacted with some of the parents who turned out.

The director of human resources, Denise Ewan, spoke to The Gleaner about the charity.

According to Ewan, the mission of the SDC is to empower youth.

"We have been operating in this community for several years and we have never fully integrated with them, so we thought it was a good idea to have a back-to-school treat where we can bring the children together," she said.

Ewan revealed that the treat had grown in sponsorship since last year because sponsors have realised that they need to support movements to empower communities, especially because they are part of it.

"It's very critical to link with the children at this age, because the children are the future. That's why we want to build a relationship with them and assist in their development," she said.

Stephanie Matthew, the SDC office manager, was busy making sure everything was going according to schedule, but she did take the time to speak to The Gleaner about the role of the charity.

Unemployed

According to Matthew, the parents in the community are mostly unemployed, and the economic climate is very difficult. Therefore, the SDC is assisting to make education accessible.

"Education is important to us, and it's valuable for our nation to move forward, so we are doing our part to assist," she said.

While giving thanks to the sponsors that assisted with the project, she also encouraged other entities to assist in community development.

"Look at your communities and exercise your social responsibility to seek to empower your community and you will be surprised to see the level of good that can be achieved," she said.

Some of the sponsors who contributed to this year's charity are Juici Patties, Jamaica models, Claro, LIME, Food For the Poor, Jamaica Broilers, Caribbean Broilers, Tastee, National, among others.

The children were given food, school bags, pencils and books. They were also entertained by a clown and got the chance to participate in recreational competitions in exchange for incentives.

Bridget Griffiths, who has been a beneficiary parent since last year, says that the charity is a great move by the SDC.

"It helps out a lot because you have parents who are unable to find books for their children and this helps to make the pressure less," said the grateful mother.