CCFABM Provides Backpacks and School Supplies to All Students at Halliday/Smith Primary School in McKnight.

The Concerned Citizens for a Better McKnight (CCFABM) marked a significant milestone in their commitment to community upliftment by celebrating the 50th anniversary of their annual back-to-school initiative. On September 1st, 2025, the organization distributed backpacks filled with essential school supplies to all 140 students of the Halliday/Smith Primary School in McKnight, St. Kitts. This act of generosity aimed to alleviate the financial strain on families as their children prepared for the new academic year and equip each student with the necessary tools for success. The event was steeped in tradition and community spirit, bringing together students, parents, teachers, school administrators, and CCFABM members, both local and from abroad.

The ceremony was not just about the distribution of supplies; it was a celebration of community spirit and a tribute to the long-standing commitment of CCFABM. Mr. Paulius, speaking on behalf of the organization, acknowledged the invaluable contributions of past community leaders and recognized the vision of the group’s founders. He emphasized the importance of education and the organization’s dedication to empowering the youth of McKnight. The backpacks, meticulously packed with notebooks, pencils, pens, erasers, sharpeners, rulers, pencil cases, scissors, crayons, and glue sticks, were more than just school supplies; they represented the community’s investment in the future of its children.

The golden anniversary of this initiative highlighted the enduring partnership between local residents, overseas members, and the government. The combined efforts of individuals like Seymour Talley-Davis (founder), Lloyd Hendricks, Ms. Hildreth Rollins, Bernard Rollins, Ken Martin, Sheldon Dauphin, Sylvia Pipperton Richards, Tracy Newton-Herbert, and Mr. Paulius himself demonstrated the power of collective action. The support from the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis through duty-free concessions, along with the complimentary freight services provided by Sandra Wallace and the continued donations from former McKnight residents, underscored the collaborative spirit driving this impactful initiative.

Beyond the provision of school supplies, CCFABM also champions academic excellence through its AAA Award, recognizing achievement in academics, athletics, and attitude. This year’s recipient, Antenia Francis, was awarded a trophy and an EC$700 gift certificate to support her transition to high school. Her accomplishment served as an inspiration to her peers, reinforcing the message that hard work, focus, and determination pave the path to success. The school’s theme, “Write Your Own Story,” echoed throughout the ceremony, encouraging students to take ownership of their education and strive for greatness.

The presentation ceremony was not merely a logistical exercise but a symbolic gesture of community support. Past students and distinguished members of the McKnight community personally handed over the backpacks to each grade level, emphasizing the interconnectedness of generations and the shared responsibility for nurturing the next generation. This act solidified the message that the entire community is invested in the students’ success and believes in their potential. It was a moment of connection, encouragement, and shared pride.

In essence, the 50th anniversary of CCFABM’s back-to-school initiative transcended the practical act of providing supplies. It represented a half-century of unwavering dedication to the children of McKnight. The event served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of community involvement, the importance of investing in education, and the enduring belief in the power of young people to shape their own futures. The backpacks, filled with more than just school supplies, carried the weight of community hope, support, and a commitment to fostering a brighter future for all.