The Desnoes and Geddes (D&G) Foundation disbursed cash donations totalling J$400,000 and sponsored book vouchers worth over $150,000 to three educational institutions.

The beneficiary schools are: Christian Early Childhood Academy, Callaloo Mews Basic School, and Joseph Royal Educational Centre.

The D&G Foundation provided The Christian Early Childhood Academy with 13 book vouchers and a cash donation of $100,000. Reacting to the gesture Sherica Francis-Christian, principal of The Christian Early Childhood Academy, said: “The foundation promised to assist with repairs and renovations for back to school this year, as well as donating book vouchers to our students heading to Primary School; however, I was not expecting an additional donation.”

“It is truly a pleasant surprise to see that they have not only increased the amount allocated to each voucher, but they are donating to our breakfast programme once more,” she added.

Callaloo Mews Basic School, which has been a recipient of the D&G Foundation’s support since 2022, also received nine book vouchers and $100,000 to bolster the school’s breakfast programme for the new school year.

Joseph Royal Educational Centre, which received support from the D&G Foundation for the construction of its school building last year, received a cheque for $200,000 towards the school’s breakfast programme.

John Mitchell, principal of Joseph Royal Educational Centre, said: “The growth of our school has always been something that I have dreamed of, and to see it come to pass feels surreal. We could not have done it without the increased support of the D&G Foundation. They have been with us since we transitioned from tents to a professionally constructed school building, and we’re so thankful.”

Dennis Beckford, the accountant of the D&G Foundation, shed light on the organisation’s mission. He stated: “Education is a powerful tool for empowerment for our citizens and the society at large, and we are always eager to assist in this regard. By donating to schools within vulnerable communities, we aim to underscore the transformative potential of education.”

“It’s about shaping futures, breaking cycles of disadvantage, and fostering the leaders of tomorrow. Our Foundation remains committed to these philanthropic efforts because education is the cornerstone of progress and equality,” he added.