Juveniles from around the island began a three-week summer camp at the Golden Grove Primary School on Monday. The Juvenile Summer Camp (JSC) is organized by the Citizens' Welfare Division, a department under the Ministry of Housing, Culture & Social Transformation and attempts to prevent students from getting involved in anti-social behavior and develop wholesome attitudes.

Chief Welfare Officer, Mrs. Faustina Jarvis, speaking at the opening ceremony on Monday, said the emphasis this year is on education.

"This year as in the past, the most important aspect of the JSC is our focus on education as we prepare to face life challenges. Whatever you are able to learn during the short period is intended to better equip and prepare you for whatever life throws at you".

Jarvis also announced that a wide range of activities including marshal arts, field trips and discussions form part of the programme. In addition, there will also be woodcraft, arts and craft, essay writing, food preparation, drama, dance and singing.

Approximately 70 children are expected to participate and they are drawn from the welfare, probation and foster care programmes.

The Chief Welfare Officer informed the participants during the opening ceremony that there is to be an intergenerational activity.

"One of the highlights of this year's camp is an intergenerational activity where you the participants will have an opportunity to visit some of the nations' elderly in their usual habitat. Also to make the visit more meaningful, each of you will be encouraged to contribute towards a care package which will be given to the persons visited.

Minister of Housing, Culture & Social Transformation, the Hon. Hilson Baptiste, congratulated the participants and urged them to be attentive and obedient during the camp, as what is taught will be relevant to their complete development.

The camp is expected to come to an end on Friday 26th August with a closing ceremony where a number of prizes will be distributed to outstanding students.

For further information contact:
Collin Jno-Finn
Communications Officer
Ministry of Housing, Culture & Social Transformation
Dickenson Bay Street, St. John's
(268) 562-5698 / 771-4006