Kids all smiles after gift project

The Holiday Gift Project brought cheer to children across the Virgin Islands last week as the Ministry of Communications and Works partnered once again with the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association for the annual event at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park.

Each year, the ministry selects a non-profit organisation focused on youth to benefit from the initiative. This year’s recipient was Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (M.A.L.E.) and its sister organisation Fostering, Empowering and Mentoring Anointed Leaders Everywhere (F.E.M.A.L.E.).

M.A.L.E., founded in 2014 by Henderson Tittle, provides practical guidance for boys as they navigate adolescence and adulthood.

According to the organisation, participants are given a safe space to discuss challenges, celebrate strengths, acknowledge mistakes, and receive support from mentors committed to helping them “become great men.”

F.E.M.A.L.E. — which was established in 2022 after parents called for a similar programme for girls — maintains the same core mission: “to save the next generation,” according to government.

Both groups serve children ages 6-18.

Gifts for all

As part of the Holiday Gift Project, the ministry and the FCCA collected and distributed gifts for toddlers through teenagers.

The presents were sponsored by Diamonds International. Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer praised the partnership.

“The Holiday Gift Project reflects our commitment to the communities we serve and demonstrates the importance of giving back during the holiday season,” he said.

Staff from Diamonds International, along with crew members of the Norwegian Gem cruise ship, distributed toys, educational materials and other essential items.