A hundred and sixty youth, including the gang members of the crime-ridden Kelly Street community, on the North side of the city, were engaged in various sports and educational activities over the Easter holiday – possibly a reason that there were no incidents of violence in that part of the city over that weekend.
Philip “Fawda” Henry, the organizer of the event, said that they were able to create a friendly atmosphere filled with wholesome fun and competition for the young people of the area, ranging in age from 7 to 17, who did not get the opportunity to travel over the Easter holiday. The youth got the chance to choose a sport of their liking – for each of which a coach and a councilor were assigned.
Henry said that everything was provided free of cost for the youth, and he wants to thank the sponsors who donated to the cause. First place winners received a $50.00 cash prize and 3 DVD’s , while second place winners were given $25 along with 3 DVDs and third place winners received $20 and two DVDs. Henry said that it was a pleasure to see the parents watch their children participate in the competitions, in the safe environment they managed to create in the Kelly Street area. The youth were divided into teams, and names with positive meanings, such as “Love”, “Peace”, “Together”, “Free from Violence”, “Family”, and “Da Fu We Children” were given to the teams.
Henry went on to say that the educational program, “Do the Right Thing Pedestrian Crossing”, is still ongoing, and it will conclude on Friday, April 5. The program began on March 22. There will be a closing ceremony at 9:00 a.m. at the BTL Park near the Princess Hotel and Casino. At the conclusion of the ceremony, a three-a-side football competition that will include the participation of the youth’s parents will be held. The activities will conclude at 3:00 p.m.
Henry said that the next cycle of the “Do the Right Thing Crossing”, will be conducted in Dangriga, but the commencement date has not yet been finalized. Sylvin Gomez will be the coordinator in Dangriga, he said.
Henry says that he stands ready to assist in activities aimed at creating safer communities, in partnership with any group or organization. Through such activities there will be peace and a reduction in crimes, said Henry. He can be contacted at phone number 667-0295.