Christopher Martin Foundation supports students with school supplies

 

The initiative, part of the foundation’s post-hurricane recovery efforts, saw the donation of over 600 stationery packages on Monday, including pencils, erasers, and sharpeners. 

 

Some were distributed directly to primary schools in St James, including Barrett Town, John Rollins Success, Flankers, and Bogue Hill, while the remainder was handed over to the regional office of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information for further distribution to PEP students across primary schools in the region.

 

An additional 100 stationery packages were also presented to the Ministry’s regional office to support high-school students preparing for the May/June CSEC examinations.

 

International reggae and dancehall artiste Christopher Martin, founder of the Christopher Martin Foundation, also engaged directly with students during the visit, offering encouragement ahead of their upcoming examinations. His interactions aimed to boost confidence and emphasise preparation and perseverance during this critical academic period.

 

“Our children are facing real challenges, especially after everything many families have been through. If we can help to ease that burden, even in a small way, then it is something we must do," Martin said.

 

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, principal of John Rollins Success Primary and Infant School, Rowena Blackwood-Ellison, expressed appreciation for the timely support. 

 

“We are appreciative of the gesture. It lets the students know that they are [at] the forefront of our minds and that we wish them the best. They not only have support from the school and their parents, but also from the Hyundai family and Christopher Martin, who came and interacted with them. It will only reinforce the academic work that they would have done,” she said.

 

At Barrett Town Primary and Infant School, which was significantly affected by Hurricane Melissa, Principal Anthony Murray noted the importance of the support in addressing ongoing challenges faced by students and their families.

 

“Many of our students would have lost their supplies, and it has been challenging. This donation of stationery comes in very handy, and it ensures that all students preparing for PEP are fully equipped to sit their examinations and give themselves the best opportunity to succeed,” he shared.

 

Senior education officer for primary schools in Region 4 at the Ministry of Education and Youth, Jacqueline Gardiner highlighted the value of partnerships in advancing recovery efforts across the education sector. 

 

“The Christopher Martin Foundation and Hyundai Jamaica have played a significant role in strengthening partnerships during this time of recovery. Many of our schools were damaged, and our students truly needed this support. What stands out is that they did not just send supplies; they came to the schools and engaged with us ... As a region, we are grateful,” she said.

 

Reflecting on the initiative, Martin reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Jamaica’s youths, particularly during times of hardship.

 

"Education is a powerful tool, and I want every student to feel prepared, confident, and supported as they take this next step,” he said.