The Caterpillar Project (TCP) students of Project Promise presented a local family with many items for its household. It was part of the students’ monthly community service project; during August, they partnered with the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS) to identify a family in need. The family includes two small children: a 2-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl. Last Friday, the Caterpillar students gave the family clothing, toiletries and some basic necessities for the children during a special presentation.
The grandmother of the two preschoolers, Faybelle Forde, was very thankful. “Words can’t express the feeling within me at this moment,” said Forde. “I really wasn’t expecting this valued contribution. The grandchildren are all excited and happy for everything, and I must let you all know this will not go unrewarded. I pray that the Father above will bless all of you in everything you do.”
The Caterpillars were given the task of developing a list of items that the children would need, and the list was then split between the Caterpillars. The mentors, life coaches, staff and volunteers for the program assisted the students in the effort.
On Saturday, the Caterpillars made a special presentation to a local student with Down’s Syndrome. They presented Nyah Robinson with a new backpack and school supplies from monies they had raised during a fundraising campaign for children with disabilities as part of their July community service.
Resa O’Reilly, Project Promise founder and president, is extremely proud of the students. “This was an extraordinary summer of giving for our Caterpillars! They exceeded all expectations and surpassed all the goals that were set forth for both July and August’s service projects,” said O’Reilly.
For more information about The Caterpillar Project or other Project Promise programs, contact Resa O’Reilly at 244-3242. Project Promise is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk youth on St. Croix by providing empowerment initiatives, cultural programs and family services. To donate or learn more about Project Promise, please visit the Web site at www.projectpromisevi.com