Rotary gives to children in need

Ten children are to be equipped with tablets while another 40 will be outfitted with uniforms under the Rotary Club of Barbados South’s signature “Back to School” programme.

The club’s donations coincide with the new school term which started last week. The support for needy children is provided through a partnership with the Child Care Board which has lasted more than 15 years, acting Deputy Director of the Board, Colin St Hill said.

“They (the club) have been very good over the years,” he added.

Newly-installed President of Rotary Club of Barbados South Michael Forde said the civic organisation has responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing tablets
as well as uniforms.

The COVID-19 crisis forced Government to lock down education and business services in March which meant students preparing for examinations were taught online. For some schools adjustments were made to also provide online sports coaching.

Forde said the club partners with retail businesses and the Child Care Board to identify the needy families.

Director of Service Projects George Connolly said outside of the Back to School programme, the club had provided more than 100 tablets to primary and secondary schools.

“We definitely have families out there who would not have access to these tablets,” St Hill noted.  He said the donation of uniforms and tablets was a good blend. “We definitely have families out there who would not have access to this technology,” the acting Deputy Director remarked.

Forde and Connolly also met with St Hill recently to discuss the donation of 100 hampers to families identified by the Child Care Board.

“The support for families has been driving the club,” Forde said. “We will continue to support and broaden this project (Back to School) where possible,” he added. (HH)