Students of the Stubbs Village Preschool are set to benefit from new educational resources, hygiene products and learning materials following a donation from St. Matthias Charities Inc.
The donation was recently presented to Principal Marsha John and included supplies for the school’s Graduating Class of 2026, as well as a range of educational and play-based learning materials aimed at supporting students’ development both in the classroom and at home.
According to the charity, the resources were selected to encourage interactive learning activities that help improve hand-eye coordination, motor skills and overall child development.
The donation was inspired by a recent feature produced by the Agency for Public Information (API) highlighting the work of Onika Castello, a staff member at the preschool who has Down syndrome and has become a positive influence within the school community.
Head of St. Matthias Charities Inc., Pastor Curtis “Mac” McBarnette, said the story deeply resonated with both him and his wife, Sharon McBarnette, who is originally from the Stubbs community.
Pastor McBarnette explained that while the organization had already adopted the preschool and was providing ongoing support, learning more about Castello’s dedication inspired them to further strengthen their commitment to the institution.
“Onika’s commitment to the children and her positive presence within the school community demonstrate the importance of inclusion and the meaningful contributions individuals can make when given the opportunity,” Pastor McBarnette said.
Principal Marsha John welcomed the donation and expressed gratitude to the organization for its continued support.
She noted that the supplies will benefit both students and parents while helping to extend educational opportunities beyond the classroom through home-based learning activities.
The donation forms part of St. Matthias Charities Inc.’s wider mission to support education, child development and community empowerment initiatives throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Officials said partnerships between schools, community organizations and charitable groups continue to play an important role in enhancing educational outcomes and ensuring that children have access to the resources they need to succeed.