March 27, 2021 | St. John’s, Antigua | Cindy Greenaway
The Community Services department of the South Leeward Conference (SLC) continues its thrust to minister to the felt needs of the community, including partnerships with other humanitarian organizations. Its latest venture was a well-appreciated monetary contribution to the Jamaica Patriots Antigua (JPA) organization. On Monday, March 22, 2021, representatives from the group visited the Conference headquarters where a short presentation was made to the leaders of the JPA.
“Together We Rise” is the motto of the Jamaica Patriots Antigua. According to the JPA’s mandate document, the organization is a “nonprofit organization which exists to provide exciting and unique opportunities for not only Jamaicans but all persons living in Antigua”.
Though formed in September 2016, the group was officially launched in May 2017. Some of the objectives listed in the organization’s mandate are to showcase the limitless positive impact the Jamaican culture has on a nation; to boost the morale of Antiguans, Jamaicans, and other non-nationals living in Antigua and to collectively assist and collaborate with other groups/associations (such as the Adventist Community Services) where necessary.
Knowing of the SLC’s Community Services department’s reputation for working to alleviate the suffering of humanity, the JPA reached out to the Conference. SLC received communication requesting assistance to provide a monthly supply of groceries to a number of persons in need.
The Conference responded positively as Pastor Kay White, Community Services director, presented a cheque in the amount of EC $1000.00 to Ms. Patrena Scarlett, president of the JPA. Also present from the JPA at the brief ceremony, was Ms. Sheroon Chung (treasurer) and Mr. Courtney Boyd (public relations officer).
In her note of thanks, President Scarlett expressed gratitude for the gift, and underscored that she looked forward to future collaboration between the SLC’s Community Services department and the Jamaica Patriots Antigua. Pastor Kay White commended the group for their vision to provide community and humanitarian services to the island of Antigua.