The Cyril Ross Nursery was once again given a boost of support as they received their second annual contribution of $24,750 from TSTT Chairman Emile Elias, recently. On hand to receive the cheque was Rudolph Boneo, National President of the Society of St Vincent de Paul. This contribution was in keeping with the continued fulfilment of Elias’s commitment of donating his quarterly board fees to four Homes for children in need.
During the presentation, Elias said the most rewarding aspect of engaging in an endeavour such as this was simply “the joy of giving”. He further added, “Homes like the Cyril Ross Nursery dedicated to the caring for the physical and emotional well-being of children living with HIV are very unique, and as a result I would like to encourage other citizens to extend a helping hand to support and contribute to Homes such as these.”
Further endorsing this point, Rudolph Boneo of St Vincent de Paul stressed that they faced an ongoing challenge to obtain financial assistance. He was therefore extremely grateful that Elias kept his promise of support, which came as a blessing for the Home. “The needs of the Home are a little more demanding than others as the care for the children spans both physical and psychological needs which can be quite costly.”
However, on a positive note, he said he got satisfaction from the renewal of hope arising from the fact that the children are now enjoying longer life expectancy with the advancement of medicine and antiretroviral treatment.
According to Sandra Stapleton, acting manager of the Home, Cyril Ross Nursery has made strides in the last few months as funds were used for renovations to the building to house a music school on the compound.
“This will greatly assist the diverse music programme offered, that includes piano, drums, violin, guitar, keyboard and steelpan.” Stapleton was also pleased to add that three of the students were successful at a recent steelpan examination in May 2017. “One of the students received a distinction,” she said.
She stressed the importance of education of the children as a focal point at the Home, to ensure they had a good foundation for building their future, noting that two children from the Home who sat the SEA were both successful.