By Michron Robinson
Christmas came early for over 200 children in Maynard’s St Peter, who on Saturday evening were treated to lunch, gifts and entertainment with the launch of Kristmas on de Kourt.
Main organiser of the event, entrepreneur and community activist Kerry Skeete said that she always wanted to do something to give back and now was the perfect time. “When I spoke to the children and heard they didn’t have much stuff, being a single parent myself, I just wanted to help,” she said.
The mother of Kerriesha Skeete, the 16-year-old who was awarded nationally for bravery, said she sacrificed some of her own income for the event. “I took money from my own pay to do a little hamper every week. Then a friend told me I can ask for sponsorship and I decided to try that. Sponsors started to come on board. I got gifts for the kids and food free for everyone in the neighbourhood,” the proud mom said.
There were performances by Stiffy, Peter Cox and Sugarhee. DJs AON Sounds and Tank were also in attendance.
Organiser of Kristmas on De Kourt Kerry Skeete.
These little ones were very happy with their prizes.
The Maynard’s St Peter Hardcourt was packed on Saturday.
Little ones were patient as they waited for their Christmas goodies.
Committee member and businesswoman Kay Stuart said she always wanted to do something for the people of Maynard’s, a place that is close to her heart. When Barbados TODAY caught up with her, she was busy working to ensure all was set for the evening of fun. “This is something that we wanted to do ever since and somehow it just happened this year. I am happy with the outcome and happy that the children are happy. This is an area we grew up in… It is good to give back,” the owner of K and D Health Start said.
Resident of the area for over two decades, Elsa Jackman praised the event, saying it signals the rebirth of community spirit in Maynard’s. “This is very good for the kids. It’s very nice to see the community come back together and everyone enjoying themselves. I am proud to see that it turned out so well,” Jackman said, smiling.
A colleague of Kerry, Florenda Rollins, came from Clapham in St Michael to share in the community spirit – she said she had no doubts in assisting when asked. “I jumped on board because as far as I’m concerned, they are still my people and we were doing something to give back to them. Kerry worked really hard.”
Special thanks also went out to Caramel Weir, Kadira Springer, Julian Arthur, Kwame Dowridge, Gregory Dan, Chong and Outabox, Milestone Bar and Restaurant and Brittany Payne. (MR)
