In an effort to address water scarcity and storage challenges faced by schools across Jamaica, Courts Ready Cash has been spearheading its Islandwide Water Tank Initiative.

Through this endeavour, they hope to provide a water storage solution providing essential water infrastructure to educational institutions in need. The initiative recently marked its 8th handover ceremony at Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School in Portland, underscoring its commitment to enhancing access to clean water for educational institutions; leaving 2 of 10 tanks to be donated.

On February 29, Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School became the latest beneficiary of the programme, receiving a 1,000-gallon polyethene tank. This addition to their infrastructure promises to alleviate water supply concerns and enhance the overall learning environment for students and staff.

This initiative has already made significant strides in supporting various schools throughout the island. Recipients to date include Mount Ward Primary in Hanover, Brixton Hill Primary and Kellits High in Clarendon, Duckenfield Primary School in St. Thomas, Gaynstead High School in Kingston, Clonmel Primary and Bromley Primary in St. Mary. Each institution has received vital water tanks, ensuring a sustainable water supply for educational activities.

While the handover ceremony at Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School was a momentous occasion, notable absentees were Minister of Education Faval Williams, Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transport, Daryl Vaz and Brand Manager for Courts Ready Cash, Kerryann Ramdeen-Johns. Despite their inability to attend, their support for initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure and resources remains unwavering.

Speaking on behalf of Courts Ready Cash, Master of Ceremonies, and Marketing Officer/Public Relations Miss Toni-Ann Latty emphasized the importance of partnerships between the private sector and government entities in addressing critical societal needs. 

“Today we come as individuals united by a shared purpose for the betterment of our communities..as a responsible corporate citizen, we have been guided by the ethos of making a positive impact on the lives and communities we serve.” Said Latty on behalf of Ramdeen-Johns.

Miss Tanya Sinclair the Community Relations/Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education Region Two, on behalf of Education Minister Faval Williams wrote, “The ministry continues to solicit the support of corporate Jamaica to help us through public and private partnerships to provide the well-needed resources for us to make advancements in education. Courts Ready Cash has been generous in providing water storage tanks to our schools in need… we are grateful.”

Miss Roulson, a teacher at Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School gave the address on behalf of Science Minister Daryl Vaz, MP of West Portland saying, “I sincerely regret that I am unable to attend what I consider to be a most important occasion this morning. Let me wholeheartedly thank Courts[Ready Cash] for selecting Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School for its donation of one of the 1000-gallon water tanks being distributed by them to select primary and secondary schools in the drought-prone parishes…Courts is a household name because of their various promotion to assist those who are looking for the best deals…today, however, they are here as responsible corporate citizens under their [Courts] Ready Cash brand…

“As Member of Parliament, I have to arrange the trucking of water to many affected communities during the times of drought, which amounts to thousands of dollars… It is for this reason, on behalf of the school I express great appreciation… I look forward to future partnership with Courts such as this and others…”

The Islandwide Water Tank Initiative not only addresses immediate water supply challenges but also contributes to environmental sustainability efforts by promoting water conservation practices within educational institutions. By ensuring access to clean water, the initiative also supports the implementation of hygiene and sanitation measures, vital for the health and safety of students and staff.

Principal Mr Robert Watson’s address was met with warm smiles from his students and staff, as he expressed his gratitude for the donation, “Water is indeed life and this time when the use of this vital commodity, and our daily practices have reduced its availability, the need to store and conserve it more apparent. Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School say thanks to Courts Ready Cash. We want to say thanks for this kind gesture. We are elated that you have decided to include us, and as such we are looking forward to a continued partnership…Thank you, thank you, thank you very much.”

As the initiative progresses, Courts Ready Cash remains dedicated to expanding its reach and impact, with plans to extend support to additional schools in underserved communities across Jamaica. Through such initiatives, stakeholders aim to foster a conducive learning environment where students can thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of environmental constraints.

With each water tank handover, Courts Ready Cash reaffirms its commitment to corporate social responsibility and its role as a catalyst for positive change within Jamaican communities.

Our Today brings you these photos from the Courts Ready Cash handover ceremony at Windsor Castle Primary and Infant School: