Jamaicans urged to give back to their communities
Published:Monday | August 12, 2024 | 12:09 AMBarbara Gayle/Gleaner Writer
Retired teacher and former resident of Rose Street, Lucky Hill, St Mary, Leila Henry Riley, who now lives in Florida, is urging all Jamaicans to give back to their communities to better the lives of others, particularly children.
Residents in Rose Street look forward every August to Henry Riley visiting the community on behalf of the overseas-based organisation, Helping Others Pursue Excellence (HOPE), to distribute back-to-school supplies to the children and bed linen and Pampers to the Port Maria Infirmary and the Port Maria Hospital in St Mary.
A large gathering turned up last week Tuesday at the Rose Street Seventh-day Church of God, where they were entertained and the children presented with back-to-school supplies.
Henry Riley explained that for the last 24 years, HOPE has been giving tremendous assistance to the community as well as adjoining communities, and the parents and children are very grateful for the assistance.
The Seventh-day Church of God headquarters in Denver, Colorado, and the branch in Orlando, Florida, are responsible for the contributions and support to HOPE.
“Tuesday’s celebration was a testament to the power of community support and the impact of collective efforts. Volunteers, including cooks and servers, who ensured that everyone was well fed, individuals sorting and packing school supplies and clothing, played crucial roles in making the day memorable for all who attended,” Henry Riley said.
Nurturing the spirit
She explained that the event was not just about material support, but was focused on nurturing the spirit. She referred to the speech by educator Dr Donna Sherwood, former resident of St Mary now residing in England, who gave words of encouragement, reminding the gathering of the importance of perseverance and hope.
“One of my reasons for giving back to the community in which I grew up and organising the annual event is to encourage Jamaicans, particularly the children, that every child can perform with excellence if given the right help, encouragement, and love. We must remember at all times that every child is unique and every child is special in his or her own way,” she said.
She also made a special plea for parents and adults to ensure that they do not abuse the children but instead encourage them and show them love.
One of the highlights of the event was the melodious voices of the children singing with confidence the theme song I am a Promise.
“The HOPE organisation’s dedication to uplifting others will continue to be a beacon of light in the St Mary community, proving that with support and encouragement, we can all achieve greatness,’ Henry Riley emphasised.
Commenting further on the programme, she said, “The HOPE organisation’s back-to-school celebration was more than just an event. It was a demonstration of love and care for the community, a reminder that when we help others pursue excellence, we all rise together. The success and events of the day left a lasting impact on all who were involved, setting a positive tone for the school year ahead.”