December 8th, 2017 -- Once again the Royal St Kitts Golf Course was awash with colour last Saturday, 18th November 2017 when 1000 purple shirts worn by participants for the 8th Annual St Christopher Children’s Home Family Walk Run fundraising was held. As in previous years, the registration process was beautifully managed and executed by members of the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine where entrants received their event t-shirt, race number and BBQ meal ticket for the post race refreshment.
Mr X warmed up the crowd with his entertaining exercise routine, which participants of all ages enjoyed and, as in the past, this was a true family affair with babies in strollers right up to Peter Alcorn, who at 80 years was possibly the oldest participant!
“In spite of a very challenging year for international and local businesses and families, we are overwhelmed with the support that we have again been shown by our sponsors,” commented Kym Taylor – Chairperson of the St Christopher Children’s Home Board, “and without Ugo Gagliardi and the Marriott, who have been outstanding in pulling together this amazing team of volunteers, we would be unable to have this successful event for what is now our 8th year.”
“As always, the money raised today will allow us to continue to provide the much needed support and refuge needed by the Federation’s at risk younger members of the community. Whilst we continue to face challenges to provide all the services required on a consistent basis especially with regard to counseling and psychological testing, we know we are making a difference, one child at a time” Ms Margaret Stevens, Administrator and currently “Mummy” to 17 children concurred. “Once again, we are so grateful for the support shown to us today.
With 17 children, some with learning difficulties and all in need to loving care and attention, finding the financial needs to provide 24 hour care, clothe and feed everyone is an ongoing concern and which does not come cheaply. Today’s event and the funds raised, has provided the means for the Home to continue for another year in providing these much needed services. In addition, it is encouraging to see how much people really do care and will take time out of their usual busy lives to participate in this way today. Thank you just cannot do justice to my feelings this afternoon.”
After the race the participants enjoyed a BBQ lunch kindly provided by the Marriott and had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for the draw held during the afternoon. Prizes for the top male and female runners were also presented with Leroy Ponteen again taking pole position for the men with Drusan Henrey, another past awardee and Justin Bowen hot on his heels. For the ladies, Elizabeth Shingler took the top prize with past awardee Vanessa Williams and Alicia Clarke also taking home trophies.
Thank you’s to the following persons and companies who provided raffle prizes are also recognised: St Kitts Marriott Golf Course, St Kitts Marriott, Oualie Beach Hotel, Sugar City Adventures Segway Tours, Leeward Island Charters, Reggae Beach Bar, Spice Mill, Marshalls Restaurant, IC Jewellers, The St Kitts Chocolate Factory, Sweet and Savory, Shiggidy Shack, Scene St Kitts, Digicel, Mojitos, Ti Amo Gelato and Chrishie Beach.
The St. Christopher Children’s Home and Service League wishes to acknowledge and wholeheartedly thank the Marriott Group of companies and the Royal Beach Casino for reaching out, organising, hosting and subsidising the event, the over 50 individuals and companies who so generously sponsored the event, the 50 plus enthusiastic volunteers who have donated their time today including Tina Papies from Scene St Kitts who had recorded the day in photographs and most of all: the 1,000 participants who made the event such a success.
“It would be remiss to not mention our sponsors without whom, the majority of our success today would not be possible” stated Kym Taylor, “and we would like to thank everyone including Christophe Harbour, Cogen/Royal Utilities, Bedford Investments, Royal St Kitts, JDMI Jones Deslauriers, Marriott Vacation Club International, Carib Crafts and Graphics, St Kitts Marriot Hotel, Royal Beach Casino and the Royal St Kitts Golf Club.
At Gold level the following local and international sponsors CGM Gallagher Insurance, CIBC/First Caribbean International Bank, Diamonds International, Digicel, Global Elevators, Grant Thornton, Henley & Partners, Hobson Enterprises/Crowley Shipping, International Furniture, ISPA International, Nagico, Peninsula Associates, Tropical Shipping, Windsor University and SOL.
Silver level sponsors this year are:– Amory Enterprises, Bennet Hofford Caribbean Construction Co Ltd, Delisle Walwyn/Caribbean Alliance Insurance, Durock, Kajola/Latin Fest, Lutron Liamiagua, St Christopher Club Ltd, Food Center, OD Brisbane, TDC, Ternion Construction.
Bronze Level sponsors include B Kassab & Associates, Cafa Brit, Chemtron, Gordon Food Services, International Womens Association, Karl and Gayle Reutner, MASA, Modern Elegance, Mold Inc, Phoenix Construction, Spratnet and St Kitts Industrial Supplies.” “It is quite a list but each and everyone one of you have helped to provide the financial support we need for another year – a heartfelt Thank You all.”
Further details on how you can help or for information about the Home can be found on our website at stchristopherchildrenshome.org or on Facebook at St Christopher Children’s Home – St Kitts or by calling us at 465 4007 or by email: skchildrenhome423@yahoo.com
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