EAST END/LONG LOOK, Tortola — A new community initiative is being launched in District 7 to help ensure that children do not have to face the school day hungry.
The People’s Leadership Movement (PLM) District 7 Committee has launched a School Lunch Programme, providing free lunch assistance to eligible students at Francis Lettsome Primary School and Willard Wheatley Primary School.
Operating under the theme “Healthy Students. Brighter Futures,” the initiative is aimed at supporting families who may be struggling to meet the rising costs of providing meals for their children.
A full stomach, a better school day
District 7 Committee President Kevon Lettsome said the initiative was developed after seeing the challenges facing families in the community.
Lettsome said hunger can affect a child’s ability to concentrate, participate and fully engage in the school day, making access to a reliable meal an important part of supporting children’s education and wellbeing.
Under the programme, eligible children will receive lunch at no cost to their families.
Lettsome said the initiative is intended to provide parents with “one less worry” while ensuring children have the nourishment they need throughout the school day.
“I have seen this need in District 7 with my own eyes, and we could not look away. When a child is hungry, it shows in their focus, their energy and their smile,” Lettsome said.
“Our children are the future of these Virgin Islands, and if we want them to reach that future, we must make sure they are fed today.”
He added that the programme represents a commitment to families in the district.
“This programme is our promise to the parents and children of District 7: You are not alone, and we will show up for you.”
PLM leadership welcomes initiative
PLM Leader Mark H. Vanterpool praised Lettsome and the District 7 Committee for launching the programme.
Vanterpool said the initiative demonstrates a focus on addressing community needs through practical action.
“Kevon and the District 7 Committee did not wait for an election to start serving their community. They saw a need, and they acted,” Vanterpool said.
He said supporting children with access to nutritious meals can also support their ability to learn and participate in school.
“A child who is fed is a child who can learn, and a child who can learn can build a brighter BVI for all,” he said.
Vanterpool added that he was proud to support Lettsome and the District 7 Committee in the initiative.
The PLM said the School Lunch Programme forms part of its broader commitment to community support and its vision of “a brighter BVI for all.”