Salvation Army feeds the children
Like the opening of the Christmas Kettle Campaign, it’s a story we cover every year. And why not? With good news sometimes in short supply, the Salvation Army’s ability to feed the hungry always stands out as a tale worth telling. Jacqueline Woods reports from a very crowded Holy Redeemer Parish Hall.
Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
There were just not enough tables and chairs for the hundreds of Belize City children invited to the annual Salvation Army Christmas party.
Captain James Garth, Regional Commander, Salvation Army
“The real purpose of this is that it is a tradition for over sixty years. So this is just another year that is accomplished throughout the region of Belize. We had catered this year for one thousand, six hundred children and we want to uplift this event because it has been a success for us.”
Those boys and girls who could not get inside the Holy Redeemer Parish Hall, patiently waited outside until it was time for them to be served. The children were given the usual turkey dinner and a Christmas present. The young guests not only got to spend some time with Governor General Sir Colville Young, but were entertained by the Grace Primary School Steel band and Ozzie the Clown.
Jacqueline Woods
“Ozzie, I know you are a favourite among Belizean children, what the special message you are bringing to them around this time of the year?”
Ozzie
“Well, the message I am bringing, that everybody should feel happy and they should smile and share smiles with each other even though you are feeling that pain that you are feeling. Just keep on smiling and you’ll probably let somebody else catch the smile that they are offering for the Christmas season.”
…And the smiles on the boys and girls faces told you that they were having a good time. The party caters to children who are from the city’s poorest neighbourhoods. It is just one of the activities the Salvation Army holds in December. According to Regional Commander, Captain James Garth, the events could not be possible without the assistance from the public and business community.
Captain James Garth
“We want to give special thanks to each and everyone of them who had collaborate with us, and even those who had put a dollar in our kettle and pot on Albert Street.”
Jacqueline Woods
“How is that programme coming along?”
Captain James Garth
“Well it could be better, but we understand that we are facing a decrease in our economy during the last two years. But we are very grateful and we thank all those who have made it possible.”
Jacqueline Woods for News 5.
