Ambassador Thomas Hails Contribution of COJO

Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Ralph Thomas, has praised the New York-based Jamaican charity, Children of Jamaica Outreach (COJO), for its support to various educational and childcare institutions in the island.

Over its 21 years of operation, the charity has contributed just over US$500,000 to assist less fortunate children and youth in Jamaica.

“Your invaluable efforts, especially in the areas of education and health care, two vital pillars of development, have not gone without notice by the people and Government of Jamaica on whose behalf I would like to say ‘thank you’,” the Ambassador said.

He was addressing COJO’s 21^st Awards and Scholarship Gala held at the JFK Airport, Hilton New York hotel in Queens on Saturday, December 5.

Ambassador Thomas pointed out that last year, COJO provided just over US$19,000 to 14 schools and children’s homes, including scholarships awards.

The Jamaican Ambassador noted that COJO has significantly impacted the lives of thousands of Jamaican children.

“Your organisation has remained true to its mission to provide a range of well-needed social services and your dedication to providing adequate access to proper health care, quality education and advancing the overall well-being of children are deserving of commendation,” he said.

In his remarks, COJO’s Chairman, Gary Williams, noted that the entity’s mission is to give all youth the chance to reach their God-given potential so that they can become happy and productive citizens.

Mr. Williams said the organisation, which he started in 1994, as a way to give back to his homeland, has been true to its mission of contributing to youth development in Jamaica.

The function was highlighted by the presentations of awards to five outstanding individuals and one entity.

Jamaican Olympian, Veronica Campbell Brown, received the humanitarian award; the distinguished service award went to Madge Warren; the visionary award went to Patrick Jolley; the community service award was presented to Attorney Donald Vernon and Oliver McKenzie; with the corporate award going to Caribbean Airlines.