Boys’ Town treats children for Christmas

Persistent showers could not dampen the spirits of scores of residents who turned up at Boys' Town on Collie Smith Drive in St Andrew on Sunday for the club's annual Christmas treats.

In the midst of the rainfall, the children could be seen running towards the big red tent to seek shelter. But as soon as the rain eased, they did not hesitate to run back to the rides and play despite the mud surrounding them.

The event, which was hosted for the seventh consecutive year, catered to persons from the tough inner-city areas of Trench, Town, Denham Town and Arnett Gardens.

Kimona Atland's four sons were among the scores of youngsters who enjoyed games, various rides and entertainment, and were treated to a traditional Christmas dinner experience.

"Every year dem look forward to it -- the rides and the food and the excitement," she said.

"In times like these, people from the community always look forward to treat likes these, and we appreciate it," she added.

Boys' Town was established as a faith-based, value-oriented project in 1940 for the children and young people of Trench Town and its neighbouring communities. It aims to build youngsters mentally, spiritually and physically, and to equip them with the skills to find their place in society.

At the treat, the children received toys such as poppers, cars and dolls. The elderly also did not miss out on the fun, as they huddled together under the tent, ate and socialised.

Ricardo McGeachy, chief operations officer of Boys' Town, told THE STAR that it was a joy to see most of the children enjoy themselves, despite the rain.

"Looking at their reaction, it is very overwhelming to see that, because some of them, they're coming from some humble beginnings, and their parents might not have the toys or the money to carry them to a carnival or a festival," he said.