The Holy Family Children’s Home says its long-awaited “forever home” is getting closer, helped by another strong show of support from Saint Lucians at its annual fundraising dinner.
Hosted at Sandals Grande St. Lucian on Saturday, October 24, the event brought together members of the public, corporate Saint Lucia and national figures in support of the Home and the children in its care.
For years, the Holy Family Children’s Home has provided a safe place for children who have faced abandonment, abuse and the loss of family. Its next major goal is to establish a permanent home where those children can grow in a more settled and secure environment.
Administrator Sister Antonia David said the support from Saint Lucians, particularly the business community, has remained consistent.
“We had a good turnout from Saint Lucians, especially the corporate organisations. Every year they continue to support the home in so many different ways,” she said.
That support, she believes, is bringing the home closer to something it has been working towards for some time.
“The forever home seems to be getting closer, so we’re looking forward to that, having a place for the children to call their own and to feel more at home so we don’t have to move to anywhere else. I think our children deserve that.”
For Sister Antonia, having a permanent building would also give the home greater stability as it continues caring for children who have already faced significant disruption in their young lives.
Saturday’s fundraiser was also supported by several local personalities and entertainers who gave their time and talent to the cause.
Among them was Lance “Sirlancealot” Mongroo, who hosted the evening.
Mongroo had originally been scheduled to travel to Dominica to perform, but decided to remain in Saint Lucia for the fundraiser.
“I was supposed to be in Dominica performing, and I declined because I felt like my purpose was needed here for the kids, for the orphanage,” he said.
For him, the decision came down to what he felt children deserve.
“Every child deserves to feel safe. Every child deserves to feel loved. And, most importantly, every child deserves to feel that tomorrow is a lot better than just today.”
Recording artist and musician Michael Robinson also lent his talent to the evening.
He said supporting causes like the Holy Family Children’s Home has become important to him, particularly when he can contribute through music.
“I just feel like it was necessary to give back in my talent,” Robinson said.
He also encouraged other artistes to consider what they can offer, even if they are not in a position to make a financial contribution.
“It doesn’t have to be money. My fellow artistes, lend your talents. There’s so much we can do for those young kids.”
For the home, that kind of support is what keeps the project moving.
