In celebration of its second anniversary since opening its doors to serving the public, the H.O.P.E. Centre in East End successfully staged two community-based activities on Saturday 11th December, 2013.
The first was a luncheon for the residents and employees at the Rosewood Centre – a home for the elderly – located in the White Ground area in East End. Over twenty (20) persons shared in the sumptuous meal, which was prepared by the English Rose Restaurant. The meal, which mainly comprised generous servings of ham, turkey, peas and rice, cole slaw, fried plantains, mixed vegetables and chicken soup, proved very satisfying to its partakers who did nothing less than ‘wowed’ the chefs and all who were involved in reaching out to them in this tangible way. And in the spirit of love, cheer, and thanksgiving, Mrs. Alma Hodge and Joan Carty – two of the caregivers at the Home – expressed their profound appreciation for this kind gesture, undergirded by the Centre’s commitment to continue helping its people through community outreach.
But not only did The H.O.P.E. Centre spread cheer among the elderly, but also hosted a Kids Fun Day on its grounds at the Nauson House in East End from 12:30pm – 6:00pm on that same day. Well over 100 children, ranging in ages 2 to 16 were in attendance and shared in several fun activities, including a variety of games, face painting and the bouncing castle. It was a fully charged Christmas fever for the kids who spared no effort in enjoying themselves to the fullest, while relishing the goodies provided to them free of cost: popcorn, finger-licking pizza and chicken, barbequed meatballs, ice cream, cotton candy and juices, among others.
Although, the Fun Day was designed for kids, several adults took to sharing in the experience later in the afternoon by way of singing Christmas carols and also in the grand finale – the lighting of Nauson House and some of its surrounding trees – with Christmas lights. Mr. Terrence Fleming of East End gleefully provided musical accompaniment on the guitar, adding to the ever-pervading spread of Christmas cheer.
The Kids Fun Day ended with the distribution of Christmas gifts to over 125 children, the majority of whom are residents of the East End community.
Indeed, the H.O.P.E. Centre is grateful to the sponsors, contributors and well-wishers for helping to make their 2nd anniversary activities a tremendous success! The Centre is more than pleased that those in attendance (along with many onlookers) have valued the efforts of the Directors, Centre Manager, and organizing committee of this successful event. As one male youngster commented: “This is the best day of my life!”
The H.O.P.E. Centre, which officially opened its doors on 19th December, 2011, continues to provide opportunities for educational advancement in areas of Math, Reading, English, homework, computer, EDPM and Office Administration. It also partners with the AXA Cares food bank to distribute food baskets on a monthly basis to approximately 95 families in Anguilla.
The Centre therefore takes this opportunity to wish the residents of East End and the general Anguillian community, a blessed Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year! We remain committed to Helping Our People Excel.
