Getting Kids to School in Jamaica
Students and parents stand in front of Josey the school van with Fr. Jim Bok, OFM, outside St. Anthony's Kitchen
Facing our future with hope
~
Because of the generosity of our donors, kids that would not have been able to attend school are gearing up for another year.
September 6th was the first day of the new school year in Negril. As usual, St. Anthony's Kitchen was the gathering place to collect their lunch money, taxi fare, eat breakfast, get school supplies, and of course, get words of encouragement from Fr. Jim Bok, OFM. Prior to this, Get Kids to School assisted (working with parents) in outfitting and supplying 250 children with the necessities for the start of school (uniforms, shoes, school supplies, fees, etc.).
During the 2015–2016 school year, Get Kids to School financially assisted 200 children and served breakfast to 70 kids each morning. In addition, 50 students were transported to school via the bus, Josey. This year Josey (a too small 15 passenger van) is making three trips to and from school to accommodate the children needing transportation.
“As a kid I remember a TV commercial reminding me that “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” I’ve never forgotten it. Thank you United Negro College Fund. I have seen far too many wasted minds—and lives—for lack of education—often because a mom doesn’t’ have $1 or $2 a day. We do what we can do with the help of benefactors. “Facing Our Future with Hope” is the title of my Franciscan province’s vision statement. It is a living vision which I totally embrace and which I want for our children—A Future with Hope” says Fr. Jim.
~
You can donate to the missions in Jamaica or any of our ministries at our Donation Page.
Keep up with the students on the St. Anthony's Kitchen Facebook page.
Fr. Jim Bok, OFM, is the pastor of Mary, Gate of Heaven in Negril, Jamaica
Posted in: Newsletter, Prayer, Saint Anthony
