CUL-DE-SAC:--- The St. Maarten Academy family stepped up to the plate in recent weeks, raising funds and collecting food and clothing for one of the families affected by the recent fire Over the Bank.Upon hearing of the news and realizing that one of the students at the school had lost everything, including school books, the school's Student Government Association (SGA) jumped into action and organized a Jeans Day where students were encouraged to give generously. The students donated a total of $497, while teachers donated $238. An additional sum of $300 was donated by School Counselor, Mrs. Baly-Vanterpool. The latter amount was, in part, raised after the passing of Mrs. Baly's mom less than a year ago, and the family had requested that the sum be donated to a charity.
Several boxes and bags of clothing, shoes, and food items, along with $1,035 were handed over to Mr. Henry Dennis, the father of the student affected by the fire. Mr. Dennis was very grateful for the donation and said the family is very happy. They are currently staying at Flamingo Resort, where Dennis works, but must find a home by the end of the month.
He reported that the five children are coping well after the blaze and that they have everything for school. The Dennis family was one of several left homeless after fire destroyed their homes on August 26.
The school's SGA would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all who contributed, or stood by the family through this difficult period.