The Department of Tourism Information and Broadcasting in collaboration with the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) hosted a Christmas party on Jan. 14, for over 200 children.

Gifts were supplied by the FCCA to 200 underprivileged children inclusive of 46 differently-abled students identified by the Child Development and Guidance Centre, Dunnotar School, and the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association. Other participating institutions included the Boys Training Centre, Holy Family Children’s Home, Vide Boutielle Combined School and the Mon Du Don Combined School.

This benevolent event has been sponsored by the FCCA for the past 21 years across multiple countries including Saint Lucia. According to FCCA Vice President of Operations, Terri Cannici, together we are impacting the lives of close to 9,000 under privileged children in 42 destinations this year.

The event has been held in Saint Lucia for the past 17 years, with full support and sponsorship of the private sector including hotels such as the Bay Gardens Resorts, Royalton Hotel and Rendezvous. Other consistent sponsors include SLASPA, A&A Brokers Ltd., Ice Factory, MASSY Stores, Windward and Leeward Brewery, Ferrands Ice Cream and Ramco Plastics Ltd.

The Department of Tourism seeks to maintain relations with the various cruise lines and welcomes a number of inaugural calls annually, to Saint Lucia’s ports.

The Christmas party was held at the Vigie Sports Complex in Castries.