Uncategorized Making spirits bright Barbados Today20/12/20220237 views Santa and Mrs Claus, along with one of their helpful elves, had a hectic day distributing some 230 gifts on Sunday. More than 200 children will be having an extra special Christmas this year thanks to the Barbados Yacht Club. Two years of the COVID-19 pandemic meant the annual children’s Christmas party could not be held. However, this year the event returned with lots of magic, special surprises, laughter and the smiling faces of little ones at the Bay Street, St Michael club on Sunday. The children, some of whom came from seven of the children’s homes of the Barbados Child Care Board and St Vincent de Paul Society, were so excited about the occasion that Barbados TODAY could hardly distract them from the jumping tents, obstacle course, face-painting lines, food stalls, football games and, of course, Santa and Mrs Claus. Right: General Manager of the Barbados Yacht Club, Wade Clarke told Barbados TODAY that their aim was to make every child attending the party feel loved and included and know that someone cares. “It’s nice to be here!” was the resounding cry of many. Throngs of little ones huddled at Santa’s feet awaiting their Christmas presents. In addition to forming new friendships, it is safe to say the best moment for many was when their names were called, they went up to collect their gifts and were greeted with a big, warm hug from Santa. Nine-year-old Amy Corbin (right) was one of the many little girls excited about having their faces painted by Charice Worrell of C&R Designs. An “auntie”, who did not want to give her name, noted that the occasion meant a lot for the simple fact that some of the youngsters would not have otherwise received a present this year and it is good to know that others care. This tiny tot is showing lots of joy as Santa gifts him his present. Noting the backgrounds of some of the attendees, General Manager of the Yacht Club Wade Clarke emphasised the importance of making all children feel special, included and loved. That’s why, with the kindness of club members BICO, Zephirin’s Bakeries, Atlantic Marketing, Massy, RM Jones and A. Jason Jones, they endeavoured to make the three-hour-long event a reality. Christmas means a lot for children and this little boy is happy to receive his toy from Santa Clause. “Our members here are from a more fortunate background and think this is what is missing from society. This is how you secure your child’s future. The friends of your child will be their support group. All of that is why we do this, to make sure that we broaden the children’s horizons and give them hope. Right now, they are just having fun, but we are building a relationship for the future,” he added. After the party, people were treated to Carols on the Beach where members serenaded the audience with some popular holiday tunes. (KC)