The JN Foundation, through its JN Circle Junction chapter, has donated reading materials and furniture to establish a reading centre for the community of Alligator Pond, a fishing village, in Manchester, to support improving literacy levels among children and adults in the area.

The facility was officially opened to the community recently. Bobbeth Clarke, principal of the Alligator Pond Early Childhood Institution, where the facility is located, commended the JN Circle Junction chapter for recognising the importance of literacy and taking concrete steps to updgrade the reading centre.

“After careful evaluation and analysis, they determined that a reading centre was necessary. This project will generate a culture shift in the community, one that places greater focus on reading and education,” Clarke emphasised.

Shavocka Swaby, assistant teacher at the Alligator Pond Early Childhood Institution, highlighted the centre’s potential to bridge literacy gaps. “When we were setting up this morning, a parent came in and asked about the programme. She didn’t hesitate to ask if it would also be open to adults,” she shared. The question, she noted, reinforced the widespread need for literacy support across all age groups.

Acknowledging the time constraints within traditional classroom setting, Swaby underscored the importance of providing additional opportunities for children to read. “The time spent on reading in school is often not enough. This centre will provide a space where children can engage in reading activities after school, helping them build stronger literacy skills.”

The initiative has already sparked enthusiasm within the community, with volunteers eager to contribute their time and expertise. Discussions are ongoing about incorporating a variety of reading materials beyond the school curriculum to further enhance learning.

Clarke urged all community members to embrace the opportunity. “We must use every available resource to support our children’s learning. This centre is more than a space— it is a steppingstone to a brighter future for our youth and adults alike.”

Omar Robinson, president of the JN Circle Junction chapter, shared his personal story about why the reading centre was recommended for funding to the JN Foundation. “This initiative started as a vision to uplift literacy levels in Alligator Pond. Many of our children are reading below grade level, and I knew something had to be done. Thanks to the JN Foundation and the support of community volunteers, we now have a space where both children and adults can enhance their reading skills.”

The reading centre is expected to serve as a vital educational resource, providing structured reading sessions, assessments, and support for individuals at varying literacy levels. Robinson reassured community members that no one should feel ashamed to seek help. “Put away the pride; if you can’t read, this is the place to be. We are here to support each other and to ensure that everyone gets the help they need.”

Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation, said its support aligns with a broader commitment to national development through education and community empowerment.

“Today is a testament to the power of community and collaboration,” she said, acknowledging the role of the JN Circle Junction chapter in bringing the project to fruition.

The initiative is seen as a crucial step in positioning children for success. “Some may look at it as just a space with books and stationery, but the reality is that we are nurturing children’s imaginations and inspiring them to see beyond their immediate surroundings,” Allen stated.

Tracing JN’s longstanding commitment to social development, she noted that the organisation started over 150 years ago as a building society, empowering Jamaicans through home ownership.

Since then, JN has expanded into a leading financial conglomerate with operations in Jamaica, Canada, the United States and United Kingdom, as well as other countries in the Caribbean, but has remained steadfast in its mission to enrich lives and build communities.