‘A dream come true’ - St Mary resident launches foundation to help the needy

Port Maria, St Mary:

Bothered by what he described as the plight of persons living below the poverty line, Nigel Nelson, founder of the charity group Friends For Change Foundation (FFCF), said that he is focused on providing assistance to the less fortunate and the underprivileged in Port Maria in St Mary.

During the launch of the FFCF recently, Nelson, who spoke passionately about his desire to join with friends and stakeholders in making a difference in the lives of the poor and destitute, pointed out that he was merely fulfilling a boyhood dream that has now been transformed into reality.

“It feels good to be able to help and give back to the people of Port Maria.

“I was determined to start this foundation, as there are countless persons in dire need of help. This is my own way of giving back, as I have received a lot. I also sought the help of other partners in a quest to render assistance to the needy people of this society. This foundation is here to stay, but we cannot help everyone; however, we can help someone. We can help those who need it the most.”

SPECIFICALLY FOR THOSE IN NEED

According to Nelson, the foundation will not seek to embrace those who are able-bodied and are in excellent physical health but have simply refused to work or make the effort to improve their living condition. He argued that the foundation will be transparent in all its efforts, while seeking to influence positive changes among residents throughout various communities in Port Maria.

“The common thinking and belief is that nothing good comes from Cock Street and areas in Port Maria where crime and violence has reared its ugly head. I stand before you to state categorically and unequivocally that such comments are nothing but lies. Where one lives does not necessarily determine one’s future. Positive thinking brings about positive changes. Together we can work to change the mindset of those who are exposed to negativity,” he added.

The foundation will be targeting senior citizens living in Cock Street and other surrounding areas in Port Maria to in provide them with the necessary assistance that will enhance their living conditions.

Additionally, the group will be staging a series of parenting workshops to sensitise and educate young mothers and fathers about the importance of proper parenting, grooming their children, and the importance of teaching them basic moral attitudes.