On Friday, December 22, the Free Town Foundation will be hosting its annual programme, where the children are feted and food bags distributed to seniors and struggling mothers.
The event, which will be held under the theme of ‘Holiday Hope’, is a continuation of an initiative that was started during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Cecelia Campbell Livingston, one of the directors of the Free Town Foundation, a food distribution element was added to the annual fête for the children.
“This will make it the third year, and it keeps getting bigger and more challenging. Last year, we distributed almost 150 food packages, and we still had to turn away some. We are hoping to make it 200 this year, and we believe that with support, it can be done,” said Campbell Livingston.
The Free Town Foundation has been unofficially operating for more than 20 years, focusing primarily on children with back-to-school and Christmas fêtes for the children. However, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the script as it unearthed the overwhelming need for assistance for the elderly, and others who were struggling to put food on the table for their families.
Holiday Hope will take place on the grounds of the Miracle Tabernacle Free Town Church of God of Prophecy, for which the charity is the outreach arm. The children will be feted for the day and will leave with a gift.
“We welcome donations of canned meat items — corned beef, sardines, mackerels, pink salmon, and sausages, as well as rice, flour, and toiletries, among other stuff. Help us to make this a really great Christmas for them,” said Campbell Livingston in a plea to corporate Jamaica.
“I am a woman of faith, and I believe that someone will read this article and be inspired to sow into this ministry. Just knowing the difference they will be making in so many lives will be worth it,” added Campbell Livingston.
Officially registered as a charity in 2016, the Free Town Foundation began carrying out small initiatives — a back-to-school and a treat for disadvantaged children from six to 17 years old. Today, the Free Town Foundation provides food, clothing, medical screenings, back-to-school supplies, and scholarships to the poor in the community.
The foundation’s loyal and dedicated team of volunteers and board members takes a holistic and family-centred approach to supporting and inspiring children, strengthening families, and impacting communities.
Contributions can be made on the foundation’s website, www.freetownfoundation.org.