US-based foundation distributes 750 backpacks to Vincy children

A Vincentian charity based in the United States has distributed 750 backpacks with school supplies to children in 13 areas of St. Vincent.

“This is a monumental task that could not have been possible without the US and SVG dedicated board members and directors,” said Sim Peters-Lasisi, a member of the Priscilla James Foundation.

This is the ninth year that the charity is distributing school supplies to children across St. Vincent.

Peters-Lasisi, a Vincentian-American who is originally from Rillan Hill, told recipients that the greatest teachers are not just those who teach students but those who care, challenge, motivate, and support. 

“They are passionate role models who encourage our children to reach for the stars no matter what obstacles they may encounter,” she said.

Peters-Lasisi said that Rita Pierson, one of her favorite lecturers, said every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be. 

“The Priscilla James Foundation is an educational organization that believes in education. We believe that every child should have the best possible opportunity to succeed in school and an adult who will champion their cause,” she said.

She said her foundation is there to support the children’s learning adventure.

“We believe in you, we believe that you can be anything you want to be, we believe that once you set goals and don’t get distracted by different circumstances of life or things, your goal can be a reality.”

Peters-Lasisi told the children that how they start is not as important as how they finish, adding,   “Your goal is to finish strong. “

She further pointed out that the difference between “ordinary” and “extraordinary” is the little “extra”, noting that Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things though Christ who strengthens me.”

“Trust in God He will help you; He has helped us all these years and He can do the same for you.  Our prayer today is that you will take your education seriously realizing that your future depends on it,” Peters-Lasisi said.

She urged parents to support their children and not talk down to them. “… let them know that you see greatness in them, maximize the positive; minimize the negative.”