PM Hosts Christmas Treat for Children in Middle Quarters

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness on Saturday (December 13) spent a memorable day with the children of Middle Quarters Primary and Infant School in St. Elizabeth, handing out gifts and bringing Christmas cheer.

The annual Christmas treat for children is normally held in Kingston, but this year, the decision was taken to the host the event in communities most impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

In his remarks, Dr. Holness said the Government aims to restore a sense of normalcy and provide a visible message of care and solidarity.

“I want children to simply be children again. The resilience of our young people in Middle Quarters is a powerful reminder of why [the government prioritises] support for communities still healing from the hurricane’s impact,” the Prime Minister stated.

He further noted that the decision to bring the Christmas treat to the community, was from a desire to ease the burden borne by families, who have faced significant disruption, displacement, and emotional strain.

Dr. Holness thanked the partners who helped bring the event to life.

“Your support helped create a bright, joyful Christmas memory for our children, and that is something truly special. We sincerely hope that the warmth generated by this treat, will ripple through the community, reinforcing confidence and a sense of unity as recovery efforts continue,” he stated.

During the day’s event, the Middle Quarters Primary School became a hive of holiday activity, with food and drinks, bounce houses, music, and a generous display of gifts for the children.

The atmosphere was filled with giggles and excited squeals, as youngsters lined up to receive toys and practical gifts. Volunteers and teachers coordinated the festivities, ensuring that each child felt cherished and included in the celebration.

Families in attendance expressed gratitude for the Government’s hands-on approach and for the opportunity to participate in such a celebratory event.

For his part, Principal of Middle Quarters Primary and Infant School, Pauvine Watson Barrett, said that the Prime Minister’s visit highlighted the importance of partnership in disaster recovery.

He also expressed gratitude to the numerous organisations and volunteers who contributed to the success of the day.

Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, who is also the Member of Parliament for the area, stressed the importance of the Prime Minister’s visit and the positive impact it will have on the community, notably the children.

“It is hard to quantify the damage…the trauma…the experience the people of this community have had…been going through. It’s such a heartwarming feeling seeing the smiles on the faces of these children,” Mr. Green said.