CISOCA ST ANN TEAM WANTED TO LIFT THE CHILDREN
(Taking care of the children)
Police officers assigned to the Centre for Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) St Ann team took a little time away from the beat, their case files, and investigations to spread some cheer to children from all over St Ann.
From left, front: team leader Detective Sergeant Iton Dennis,
Det Cpl Andrea Tulloch, Det. Cpl Dionne Williams,and in back, left
Detective Cons Natalee McGann Det. Cons Crishana Gardener)
The Christmas treat was a joint effort of CISOCA in partnership with Tiny Hope Mission of the United States.
Tiny Hope is a group of volunteers out of Florida. They have been involved in several initiatives across St. Ann for more than a decade.
More than 100 children, ages from six months to 17 years, benefitted from the treat Saturday, December 16, at the offices of CISOCA in St Ann’s Bay.
The activities were centered around the children, with face painting being one of the most popular. Gifts included: lap tops, balls, perfume sets, stuffed toys, craft items, stationery, and Bibles. Most of the gifts came from Tiny Hope.
There was a lot to eat and drink too, from KFC meals to sandwiches, cake, ice cream and assorted fruit juices.
(Det Sgt Carlington Simms, doing more than babysitting)
Denise Pecci headed the Tiny Hope team with more than 30 volunteers.
Head of CISOCA in St Ann, Detective Sergeant Iton Dennis told the North Coast Times she thought that this was a good time to cheer the spirits of the children, against the background of the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 lockdown and other stresses they faced.
“We just thought it could be a good thing to boost their morale,” Det Sgt Dennis said.
(Relaxed, and being painted by a Tiny Hope volunteer)
She said the treat and the support from Tiny Hope and the CISOCA staff thrilled her. “I am overjoyed. There are no words for me to express…just to see the laughter on the children’s faces. It makes me feel good to see we were able to add a little joy to their lives and they all are satisfied.”
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