Jamaica Observer
FREE TOWN, Clarendon — More than 200 students from Free Town and surrounding communities received backpacks, $180,000 worth of scholarships, and four tablets during an annual back-to-school treat and health fair put on by Miracle Tabernacle Free Town Church of God of Prophecy recently.
Free Town Foundation, a subsidiary of the church, organized the event. Clarendon Health Services, which was an event partner, provided students with free medical check-ups.
Some of the tablet and scholarship recipients share lens time with keynote speaker Joanie James, social worker.
Ronnaiya Royal, 15, Vere Technical High School, a tablet recipient.
"I am happy because I was struggling to do my school-based assessment which I started in grade nine. My laptop wasn't working therefore, I didn't get to finish them, so this will help me out big time. Thanks to the Free Town Foundation; I am grateful for the assistance and this will make a difference." she said.
Natalia Gayle, 15, Denbigh High School, a $25,000 scholarship recipient.
"This will aid in all aspects of my back-to-school preparation. My parents are having a challenging time making ends meet right now, plus I have two other siblings, Thank you very much for this scholarship, and may God bless you all." she said.
Ronnaiya Royal receives a tablet from Bishop William D. Hutchinson.
Joanie James, a Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport social worker, delivered the keynote address during the donation ceremony. She encouraged recipients to give back to organizations and foundations that have helped them.
"Education is a key investment in your child. Many people have used it to gain financial freedom. Parents, despite the many challenges you may face, don't give up. Speak positive things over your children. Encourage them to be the best they can be. Spend time with them. Ensure that they do their work. Be there for them. Support them." she said while encouraging students to pursue their passion.
"In Clarendon, we have been doing a series of parenting workshops. We have seen that the relationship between parents and their children is not there. Daughters are smoking and drinking. Sons are selling drugs in the schools. You need to be mindful of these things." she warned.
"As parents of high school children, you need to give them a pep talk. They are entering a new environment. Tell them to be mindful of their friends. Don't drink everything that is offered because sometimes they put Molly in the drink. They need to be mindful of these things. They can't be too careful. They should not leave their bags unattended. If a search occurs, a friend may drop the drugs in their bags. Then your child is in trouble. So, children keep positive friends." she urged.
Shanique Samuels
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