Unbiased look at the Sint Maarten Elections
Island Gems members Asha Stevens and Jody Rosen with a foundation representative and some children who benefit from the afterschool program. Photo contributed
St. Maarten – Island Gems Charity Foundation recently paid for the installation of gas lines and connectors for the No Kidding with Our Kids Foundation’s afterschool activities program in Retreat Estate.  The connectors and lines were necessary for the foundation to hook up its stove to cook warm meals for children who attend the program every day. The children are given homework assistance, are involved in positive community activities and character and academic building tasks.
Island Gems, the island’s oldest charity organization, was delighted to assist with this project. “A hot meal and positive activities for children go a long way. All-women Island Gems Foundation is committed to education and social projects on both sides of the island and this project, through small, falls right into our mandate,†said recently re-elected Island Gems President Alita Singh and Vice President Karine Fleming.
Island Gems raises funds for projects such as the one with ASA at its one and only annual fundraising event. The next event will be in April 2016. The exact date, theme and location will be announced in a subsequent press release. Island Gems does not give money for projects. Projects are judged by the membership for long term viability and significant community impact. Instead of giving money, Island Gems pays for equipment or services for approved projects. Request for funding from legally registered groups on the Dutch or French sides can be submitted to any Island Gems members. Requests must be submitted with a motivation letter and pro forma estimate.
