The Supreme Ventures Foundation has hosted Christmas Treat activities for children in state care after disappointingly being unable to carry any out due to COVID-19 restrictions in 2020.

This year, the Foundation and long-term partner the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) brought Christmas cheer to approximately 50 children at the Summerfield Home in Clarendon and the New Vision Children’s Home in Christiana, Manchester.

The celebrations took place on December 15 and December 16, respectively.

SVF Director Heather Goldson said she was proud of this year’s execution of the event.

“I am so pleased that our Foundation was able to put a smile on the faces of these children, they deserve it. The past two years have been very difficult, not only for adults but particularly for children, and although our children in care are such brave survivors, we know that this added strain has taken a toll,” Goldson said.

“So, this initiative was not only about gifts and having fun, it was about inspiring hope in our children. We wanted to remind them that there is still much to celebrate and be grateful for.”

Alongside the hosting of a party, SVF surprised children at the two homes with cupcakes, a gift from each child’s wishlist and a Christmas tree. Additionally, house mothers received a Christmas gift from the Foundation. Each house mother received $20,000 in supermarket vouchers to help with Christmas expenses. 

The SVF said it was committed to its strategic mandate of focusing on the wellbeing and safety of children in state care, and the institution’s flagship fire safety programme has been leading the way in this regard. 

The ability to resume Christmas treats and other activities is a welcome boost to the overall programme.