Clarendon foundation calls for more support following oversubscribed event

Bronx, New York resident, Cleveland Barnes, has been supporting the Freetown Church of God of Prophecy Outreach Foundation for a while now. Recently, he decided to make the trek to the island to see at first hand what he has been sowing into.

Last Friday, as parents and students flocked the church, which is located in Freetown, Clarendon, it was clear from the get-go that the supplies would not be enough as about 300 students turned out for the almost 150 prepared packages.

“This is my first time being on the ground at a meeting like this. Based on what I am seeing, I realise that we need more people. I cannot say this enough, we need more supporters because there are so many children. There are so many families in need of what we are doing and today we see that we have an overflow,” he shared.

Barnes said going back to the United States, his first order of business will be to have a conversation with friends and try to build up more support as he realises the need is greater than he first thought.

“If we come together as a team moving forward effectively, everyone will be able to leave with a book bag filled with school supplies. I’m pleading, I’m begging, I’m asking please, come on board and join this foundation. It’s a good look. The more people we have on board supporting this organisation, the better it will be,” he pleaded.

Pastor of the church, Rev Dr Zebulah Aiken, thanked the many supporters and sponsors, which included Pencils4Kids, who provided two scholarships valued at $40,000; New Fortress Energy for giving book vouchers valued at $50,000; and those who shipped barrels with school supplies, and said they could not have pulled it off without their input.

“I cannot call the names of all the donors, but I just want to say that we are super grateful and my only regret is that some persons had to be turned away as there was just not enough to reach the oversubscribed turnout,” she said.

Aiken said the effort will be doubled for next year’s staging, even as the foundation now look forward to the next biggie on the calendar – the staging of their second ‘double whopper’ children’s treat and 100 food packages for the vulnerables in the community and nearby environs.

“We are calling on local companies to donate food items as well as members from the diaspora to partner with us as we try to make a difference,” she said.

Entities interested in working with the foundation can contact: ftcogopfl@gmail.com or 876-824-5610