BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – JOHN and Brenda Scannelli, a couple based in the United States who visited St. Kitts and Nevis over a decade ago, have shown their kindness by donating educational materials to further the advancement of the nation’s youth.
At a handing over ceremony held yesterday (June 12) at the Irish Town Primary School, a 40-foot container with education items, including books and school furniture, were handed over to the Department of Education to be distributed to schools and libraries.
However, the Scannellis were unable to be present at the ceremony due to the illness of John, but they sent a letter that was read on their behalf by Education Officer Jocelyn Archibald-Pennyfeather.
The letter began by stating warm greetings to their dear friends on St. Kitts and apologised for their absence, but noted that their spirits are always present.
“The partnerships and friendships that we developed over the years during our efforts towards assisting the educators, citizens and youth on St. Kitts have filled our hearts with indescribable joy.
“We thank you for allowing us to experience the beauty of your culture, the generosity of your spirits, and the kindness of your hearts. You have taught us some of life’s greatest lessons, and for that we are eternally grateful,” the letter stated.
The Scannellis also stated in the letter that they hope the contents of the container would assist the teachers in helping the students discover the joy of learning and the satisfaction of mastery.
“We pray that the children will recognise how connected we all are on this planet, how folks from afar care deeply about helping them face the challenges of our times, and how important it is to communicate with compassion, respect and empathy,” they said.
The cost of the container and for its shipping was sponsored by S.L Horsford’s Shipping through Bernuth Line.
The items were accepted on behalf of the ministry by the Chief Education Officer Patrick Welcome.
Welcome thanked the Scannellis on behalf of the ministry, schools and institutions that would be receiving the gifts and said that it would be beneficial to the children who would receive them.
Denise Batiste, Manager of Horsfords Shipping Department, said that education is important for growth and was proud to present the gifts.
The ceremony was chaired by Education Officer Stanley Knight who told SKNVibes that the Scannellis have been the first individuals to have donated computers to the Basseterre High School’s computer lab.
In addition to schools, the Scannellis have also donated to the hospital.
Included into the education materials are 80 projection screens, 40 overhead projectors, reading systems and microscopes.
Some children who assisted in the preparation for the ceremony were also rewarded with books as prizes for their efforts.
