In a heartwarming response to post-hurricane hardships, Supreme Ventures Foundation (SVF) transformed the holiday season for 59 state wards from western Jamaica through its annual ‘Make a Wish’ Christmas treat at Buzzers in Portmore, St Catherine. The event brought together children from multiple care institutions including Noah’s Ark Children’s Home, Montego Bay Community Home for Girls – Melody House, Garland Hall Memorial Home, and Mervis Braham Children’s Home, alongside participants from Foster Care and Family Reintegration programs.
The foundation’s initiative took on heightened significance following Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on local communities. Each child received a personalized ‘Make a Wish’ card beforehand, requesting gifts ranging from electronic devices to essential clothing items. Heather Goldson, SVF’s executive director, emphasized that the program extended beyond material gifts: ‘This year has been particularly difficult for many families, especially those displaced by the hurricane. We wanted to bring Christmas cheer and reassurance to these children.’
Children enjoyed unlimited access to Buzzers’ entertainment facilities including arcade games, basketball courts, virtual reality experiences, and even a haunted house. The festivities featured interactive sessions led by Supreme Ventures draw operator Kerry Major, with care providers joining the friendly competitions. A winter-themed photo booth provided lasting mementos for each participant.
Annette Clemetson, house manager at Melody House, noted the profound psychological impact: ‘Being outside and surrounded by fun and laughter has lifted their spirits tremendously.’ The emotional climax arrived with a surprise gift-giving ceremony where children received exactly what they had wished for, with many embracing presents they had only dreamed of owning.
Child Protection and Family Services Agency representative Kristen Laing praised SVF’s community partnership, while SVG’s AVP Chloleen Daley-Muschett coordinated the meticulously planned event, describing it as ‘one of the most heart-warming projects of the year.’ The foundation’s efforts demonstrated how corporate social responsibility can restore hope and joy to vulnerable youth during challenging times.