Calvary Moravian gives back with backpacks and grants

The Calvary Moravian Church is continuing its outreach to support children and families across the island, distributing 100 backpacks, books, and other supplies through its annual Back-to-School Backpack Drive, made possible by contributions from its congregation.

Speaking during Sunday’s service, Reverend Dr Adrian Smith explained that the initiative’s impact extends well beyond the church walls.

“Over the last couple of years, we have adopted the Prison Ministries Fellowship that allows us to bless the children of those who are incarcerated,” he said.

This year, families in the government’s One Family programme, which supports 1 000 of the island’s most vulnerable households, also benefited. Reverend Smith emphasised the importance of the church’s involvement: “I shared with the board of stewards that there was no way that our nation can identify the most vulnerable families in a nation and the church does not play a part in helping to solve the problem.”

He also stressed the importance of equipping young people with the tools to overcome barriers.

“It is important to empower people to rise above their socio-economic realities and conditions,” he said.

The church’s efforts also directly reached the classroom. Grace Hill Moravian Preschool, Hindsbury Primary School, and Grantley Prescod Memorial Primary School were among those receiving books, manipulatives, and other educational materials.

Senior teacher at Grantley Prescod, Ingrid Armstrong-Walcott, expressed gratitude on behalf of the students and staff.

“Grantley Prescod is so happy to have been chosen by Dr Smith. We are grateful for this and we are going to make excellent use of each and every resource that we have been given,” she said.

In addition to the backpack drive, the church continues to support students through the Calvary Moravian Church Educational Foundation, which awards grants at key stages of a student’s academic journey.

Under the programme, students receive tokens of recognition and encouragement at major milestones in their educational journey.

Recipients must be actively involved in one of the church’s groups and meet specific criteria.

Now in its 19th year, the foundation has awarded 188 grants to 85 students, disbursing $33 000 to date.

Among this year’s honourees was Aldaro Blackman, who recently earned a Bachelor’s Degree in General Nursing. Blackman received several academic awards and was named Student of the Year, earning recognition for his dedication and performance.

(STT)