First Union, Mr Lee's help Corporate Area students

Keisha Hill, Gleaner Writer

THE NUMBER of children in need of financial assistance to further their education continues to rise, and in an ever-difficult economic situation, many of our bright minds do not get the opportunity to realise their full potential in our educational system.

A number of kind-hearted Jam-aicans, including Janette Clarke, have embarked on a project to assist children between the ages of 10 and 18 who are placed in high school, but find it difficult to make the transition because of inadequate funding.

"These students should really be in need and they should be students with potential. Some of them are already brilliant, but do not have the wherewithal to at least continue their mission to become worthwhile individuals later on in life," Clarke said.

Ten students were selected for scholarships last year. The scholarship covered the full cost of their tuition and books for the school year. All 10 students are attending schools in the Corporate Area.

"We provided these students with school fees and purchasing of school books for the year. Naturally, there is a shortfall there because some of those students are so ill-equipped. You talk about the need for uniforms and school books (and) lunch money not covered. What we are trying to do is to get other companies and individuals to come on-board and try and fill the gap," Clarke said.

Need-based assistance

Students are selected or recommended based on their particular need. "It's not just about helping students who can't go to school, it's about helping kids who are very brilliant, but they are stifled because of a lack of resources. So we want to remove that barrier and afford them the opportunity to continue with their education," Clarke added.

First Union Financial Company and Tyco Foods Limited, owner of the Mr Lee's brand, were the first sponsors of this project, and according to Lloyd Campbell, chief executive officer, they are committed to continuing the partnership this year.

"We have always wanted to have an impact on the lives of individuals, but we have always wanted to do this through education. We assist parents whose children have the potential, but are unable to afford to get them back into high school," Campbell said.

Unlike other scholarships, there is no fixed amount in cash or kind for the First Union/Mr Lee's educational support. Each case is treated on its own merit. "Beneficiaries must be self-motivated; demonstrating a strong hunger for learning; and at the time of selection are experiencing a lack of education-related resources that seriously hinder their performance and/or ability to achieve their highest potential," Campbell said.

They must also be attaining a 60-65 per cent average in core subjects and be registered in a primary or secondary school in Jamaica. The scholarships are subject to an annual extension, depending on the students' performance.

Campbell indicated that they are planning to increase the number of beneficiaries to possibly 30 students this year.

Companies or individuals interested in assisting can contact 389-5613.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com