St James Parish Council fêtes children for Christmas

Karrie Williams, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:Hundreds of children from St James were treated to a day of fun and frolic at the St James Parish Council annual Christmas treat, staged for their pleasure at the Jarrett Park complex last week Thursday.

From as early as midday, the children, accompanied by their parents and guardians, began arriving at the venue. They were greeted with lively music and ushered to a snack station, where they were offered a variety of goodies, including hot dogs and popcorn.

A merry-go-round and trampolines were among the attractions that were available throughout the day. Wasting no time, the children flocked to their favourites, where they took turns enjoying themselves.

Whereas the older children preferred to display their best dance moves on the stage, where they were cheered on by other onlookers, the trampolines were more popular with the younger ones.

"It is so nice. I am having a lot of fun today," said excited six-year-old Troy Smith. "I really love the trampoline. It is my first time on it, and when I am done playing, I will go have my lunch."

fun atmosphere

Such was the fun atmosphere that some adults could not contain themselves and joined the children in the fun and games.

There were also many giveaways, numerous toys, and school supplies, which were handed out during lunch which consisted of jerked chicken, chicken wings, sandwiches, cupcakes, and drinks.

One parent, Joy Reid, who attended with her family, lauded the St James Parish Council for fêting the children.

"This is a good thing for the kids, especially those who come from needy homes and would not otherwise get treated for Christmas. It is nice that the parish council has taken time out to acknowledge the children of Montego Bay," she said.