Kiwanis Club of Stony Hill builds new kitchen for basic school

THE KIWANIS Club of Stony Hill has constructed a new kitchen and installed appliances such as a stove and fridge, and contributed pots, plates and utensils at the Wesleyan Holiness Basic School in Golden Spring, St Andrew, at a cost of $550,000.

The construction of the 15ft x 7ft kitchen was done over three weeks and was ready in time for the start of the September school term, with the official hand over taking place on September 11.

According to president of the Club (2017-2018), Leighton James, funds to carry out the construction came from proceeds of various fundraisers put on by the club, as well as contributions from individual members. In addition, Virgin Distributors sponsored the windows, while JMMB gave $30,000 towards the project. There are currently 20 students enrolled in the basic school.

It was the major project for the club under James’ presidency.

“My administration saw the need for the renovation of the kitchen following other interventions at the school during the previous administration of the club, led by then President Linne Thompson-Hyatt,” said James.

Leading up to the construction of the new building, members of the Kiwanis Club of Stony Hill participated in reading programmes, breakfast-feeding initiatives, and donated items for the school’s art and craft department.

The school has been adopted by the Kiwanis Club of Stony Hill, which will seek to ensure that the new building is maintained and some of the needs of students are met.

The old kitchen before the renovation.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS From left: Students look on as Sharon Williams, Kiwanis Lt Gov 2017-2018, cuts the ribbon to declare the new kitchen open. She is supported by Leighton James, president of Kiwanis Club of Stony Hill, and George Lynch, pastor of the Wesleyan Holiness Church, Golden Spring, St Andrew.