Fraser-Pryce spreads seasonal cheer in Waterhouse

Sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce presented residents of Ashoka Road and other sections of Waterhouse with Christmas packages on Saturday. Her charity, the Pocket Rocket Foundation, was engaging in this annual activity for its 14th year.

Waterhouse is a mainly low-income neighbourhood of western St Andrew troubled by persistent gang violence.

Sparked by memories of her upbringing in its environs, Fraser-Pryce returned to inspire children in which she sees potential similar to that she showed in her youth.

“I can remember my mother selling on Grand Market,” Fraser-Pryce said. “There was no traditional Christmas dinner or toys, therefore, it (the treat) is a commitment I made to continue returning to my village. The best feelings for me is to hear a child say, ‘Shelly makes me enjoy my Christmas.’”

The Pocket Rocket Foundation outreach, billed at $2 million, was sponsored by Digicel, Toyota, Excelsior, Nike, and AC Hotel.

Juggling the roles of wife, mother, and superstar sprinter has been a difficult transition, said Fraser-Pryce, but she is still pressing ahead with entrepreneurial pursuits as a supplier of all things fashion.

“We have decided that in 2022, the business, which is now called Lady Shelly Beauty, will be rebranded as Shelly Beauty,” Fraser-Pryce said.

“This rebranding will find us catering to the fashion needs of males and also the children.”