The Rotary Club of Kingston East & Port Royal recently celebrated its annual Christmas Treat, which has brought joy and excitement to the community of Port Royal for over two decades.

The event, held at Port Royal Primary School on December 16, saw the participation of 200 children and their families, many of whom have been part of the festivities since their early years.

Melissa Anderson, president of the Rotary Club of Kingston East & Port Royal, in highlighting the significance of the annual Christmas treat, especially for the children of Port Royal, said: “The children of Port Royal look forward to this event every year as it brings them immense joy. Not many events happen in that community, so it is an event that the club takes great pride in hosting and making each year more impactful.”

The festivities included an afternoon of play, food, fellowship, and laughter, creating lasting memories for the children. The highlight of the day was the distribution of gifts, generously sponsored by various organisations, including Jamaica Biscuit Company Limited, Babybop Kids, Restaurants Associates Limited, Confectionery & Snacks Ja Limited, LASCO Distributors Limited, Honey Bun, Massy Distribution Jamaica Limited, 7Krave, Frozen Delights Distributors Limited, and contributions from Rotarians.

Santa Claus, a beloved figure at the event, handed out toys suitable for both boys and girls, including themed books, balls, snake and ladder board games, dart sets, and bead bracelet-making sets. Care packages were also distributed, bringing smiles to the faces of both children and parents.

“I am overjoyed by the outpouring of support from corporate Jamaica, which made it possible for us to hand out the many gifts. When Santa arrived, the joy and excitement in the eyes of the children is an image that all my club members and volunteers will cherish forever. I am so proud to continue this rich legacy of our club,” Anderson added.

Looking ahead to the new year, the Rotary Club of Kingston East & Port Royal is gearing up for its major project: the St Thomas Tourism Skills Ready programme. This initiative aims to train and develop skills relevant to the tourism industry among community members in St Thomas. The project has already gained support from Gary ‘Butch’ Hendrickson and the National Baking Company Foundation, serving as a kick-start for the initiative.