Kelia Love charity returns - Bray Street community to benefit in second phase of project

LATER this month, director of the Kelia Love Charity Project, Kerry-Ann 'ChineyK' Collins, is scheduled to return to Jamaica to host the second phase of the organisation's philanthropic programme.

Launched in January 2010, the 'Kelia Love' initiative was developed as an alternative outlet to help empower underprivileged Jamaican youth.

Collins, who spent much of her young life in Kingston, was determined to create a foundation that would bridge the gap between corporate Jamaica and the inner city.

Last fall, the organisation introduced the first of a series of local events aimed at promoting education as the primary means for overcoming adversities and attaining long-term success.

failure not the only option

According to Collins, "The Kelia Love Charity was designed to help children from vulnerable groups realise that failure was not their only option; that they, too, could achieve the long-term goals they set for themselves but that it was also critical for them to understand how vital the role of education is - and that is where this foundation comes into play."

Following the tremendous success of last year's production for the Alman Town community, the university student plans to recreate a similar experience for the children of Bray Street, Kingston.

Collins' affection for the district stems from her father's affiliation with the community.

"For many years, my father has served in the Bray Street area as a law- enforcement officer; his fondness for the people and the children there is what ultimately led me to hosting the second phase of the project for them," said ChineyK.

The events are expected to kick off on November 17 with a series of media appearances. On November 25, Collins will meet with and speak to the students of Elletson Primary. The kids will then be treated to a jam-packed day of fun-filled activities on Saturday the 26th on the field of the Elletson Road Police Station.

In addition, the New Jersey media personality and young activist continues to act as spokesperson to help enlighten the public on the conditions that many youngsters from the inner city face. Collins recently generated a line of 'Kelia Love Charity' wristbands available for purchase in Jamaica and the United States.

The revenue accumulated from sales will go directly toward a scholarship fund for the top-two performing GSAT students from the Bray Street area.