The Francis Fashions Shoe Locker Group, in what is probably the largest charitable donation in T&T so far, has donated over 100,000 pieces of clothing and footwear to the needy children across the country. All the clothing is new, brand name pieces straight from their stores. What has become known as the Brands of Hope initiative is a collaboration between The Francis Fashions Shoe Locker Group, The Jericho Project and Valdez & Torry International. The Jericho Project is in charge of the distribution of the clothing to all the children's homes and institutions across Trinidad and Tobago who are in desperate need.
It is a complete gift that would definitely go a long way in dealing with the negatives that these underprivileged people face. It would erase the actual physical lack of clothes and improve their self- esteem due to the quality of the clothing being given. A statement from the Francis Fashion Shoe Locker Group said: "This gesture effectively deals with the clothing needs of many of under-privileged children and even adults in our community." The Brands of Hope initiative challenges other corporations, and even the government, to step up to the plate and make a greater effort to help uplift the downtrodden in our society, according to the group, which comprises clothing stores.
"It takes the term 'social responsibility' to a whole new level never before seen in Trinidad & Tobago. It is our hope that other companies will be encouraged to be more charitable." The Steering Committee of the Jericho Project would like to invite all homes for the needy, the underprivileged, the disabled, the handicapped and any that are housing children and young adults in need of clothing support to contact the group at info@jerichoproject-tt.org. We are also in need of volunteers to help in the packing and distribution of this massive amount of clothing.
• Anyone interested in helping can also contact us at 322–7723.