Sygnus Real Estate Finance Limited (SRF), in reaffirming its commitment to education and community development, has contributed J$250,000 to the St Patrick’s Foundation back-to-school drive.

The contribution will aid in purchasing book vouchers, uniforms, covering school fees, and assisting with examination fees for deserving students under the Foundation’s purview.

Sygnus said the gesture is a demonstration of the company’s understanding of the importance of education and its role in shaping a prosperous future for the Caribbean region.

“As the new academic year commences, Sygnus recognises the significance of providing support for educational opportunities for students in need. Through our collaboration with St. Patrick’s Foundation, we hope to break down barriers to education and empower students with the resources they need to succeed academically. We firmly believe that corporate social responsibility is not just an obligation but a privilege. We are aware of the profound impact that businesses can have on society, and we will continue to embrace the responsibility to contribute positively to the communities we operate in. Our support for the Back-to-School initiative aligns with our mission to promote sustainable growth and development. We recognise that by investing in education, we are investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators and change-makers,” said Justine Powell, assistant vice-president, investment management at Sygnus.

The cheque handover took place on Tuesday, August 29, at the St Patrick’s Foundation headquarters, which included representatives from Sygnus, as well as, members of the foundation, and three beneficiaries, two of whom are members of the Riverton community.

Financial difficulties

“We are immensely thankful to Sygnus for their generosity and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our students. This generous donation of J$250,000.00 will benefit 32 of our students in multiple ways. This generous donation is also very timely as right now many of our students are facing financial difficulties, so this is a great help. We are grateful to Sygnus for their continued collaboration which is also a true testament to what can be achieved when we unite for a common cause,” said Hermine Metcalfe, chairperson of the St Patrick’s Foundation.

David Thompson of St George’s College is one of the 32 recipients of the SRF Back-To-School donation. A former student of the Riverton Meadows Early Childhood Centre and a member of the Riverton Community, he shared: “I am honoured to have been selected by the Foundation. When Mr. Rowe called, I was very delighted by the news. I’m now going into fifth form at St. George’s College and this really is a big help to my mom. She wouldn’t be able to do it on her own, so I am grateful and thankful to both The Foundation and Sygnus.”