‘Adopt’ a needy child for Xmas

YVONNE WEBB

Chaguanas Mayor Gopaul Boodan has appealed to the ‘more fortunate’ citizens to adopt a needy child for Christmas. In an interview yesterday, Boodan said in these harsh economic times the country is facing there are many children who will not wake up on Christmas morning to find a gift with their names under the tree.

“It is time to bring back the true meaning of Christmas, by putting joy and happiness in the lives of families and children.” He called on the business community, civil society, NGOs and individuals in Chaguanas and citizens in general to adopt a child for Christmas. He explained the idea was not to legally adopt them.

“What I am asking is for people who have a little more than others to see God in every child’s face and give back a little. “Give a child a gift, a toy. Make them happy. Let us see smiles on their faces, some comfort and joy on Christmas morning.” He called on social groups to identify a child or children in their communities in need to present with gifts.

Last Saturday, Boodan held his 24th annual Christmas treat for children in Chaguanas, which doubled as a welcome to his first grandchild.

He said in 2018, there is going to be a focus on youth development in all areas of sports, education, culture, arts and security in the borough.