Young benefactor donates tablets to the needy
Published:Saturday | July 18, 2020 | 12:22 AMJonielle Daley and Judana Murphy/Gleaner Writers
The fundraising efforts of young philanthropist Imani-Leigh Hall led to the donation of 42 seven-inch tablets for less fortunate students.
Ilah’s Lemon-Aid Stand for Kids Foundation recently became a registered charity but the work began three years ago.
Her spirit of philanthropy was fuelled by her desire to help children who are in need.
Hall started out by selling a specially blended lemonade mix at school events, which allowed her to stage an annual Christmas party at the Maxfield Park Children’s Home.
“My goal is to put a smile on their faces, ensure that they are healthy and very happy,” the 11-year-old shared.
The Hillel Academy student explained that the aim of the foundation is to provide assistance to children for food, clothing and educational needs, among other things.
Virtual 3K run
When schools were shuttered amid the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions placed on hosting events, she knew she had to get creative.
Hall hosted a virtual 3K run which saw the participation of 162 runners from 10 countries.
The proceeds of the run, along with donations from Digicel, Seprod and Sagicor, made her project a reality.
The SIM-enabled tablets with a year’s data plan will be distributed to students in at least 25 schools islandwide through the Early Childhood Commission (ECC).
Alligator Pond Primary and Infant School is one of the schools the commission has selected as beneficiaries.
Principal Gregory Bent expressed gratitude on behalf of his students for the timely donation, which will bolster remote learning.
He told The Gleaner that education is undervalued in many fishing villages across Jamaica.
“We have a passion and a mission to change this narrative throughout the community and it will not only benefit the community but Jamaica as a whole. This donation will definitely start the conversation,” said Bent.
The youngster has not planned her next project but her mission remains the same.
“I just really want to do more to impact the lives of children.”
To children with a similar vision she said: “My mommy tells me every day, ‘No person is too small and no obstacle is too big’.”