Superintendent of Police Velma Thomas Gayle accepts the care packages from representatives from Lasco Distributors Jamaica
The Jamaica Constabulary Force-led Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics, through support from Lasco, is ensuring that the Special Needs Community remains safe and healthy as the country tries to contain the spread of the Coronavirus.
The support was materialized on Friday, March 27, with the handover of Lasco personal care items and food items at the Force’s Elletson Road Complex in eastern Kingston.
“Our commitment to the well-being of our Special Olympians extends beyond their capacity to achieve their sporting dreams. We have always cared for their holistic wellness, and in this time of unprecedented crisis, we want to ensure that they and their families remain healthy and safe. We thank Lasco for supporting us on this cause,” notes Inspector Natalie Palmer Mair, national director for the local leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR).
Inspector Palmer Mair also urges the public and caregivers of special needs individuals to take extra care of these persons at this time.
“Empower them with the information, guidance and tools to help them maintain their personal hygiene routine and for them to be extra vigilant when they are in public spaces,” Inspector Palmer Mair said.
The items, to include food items and personal care items, will be handed over to Special Olympics Jamaica and will benefit hundreds of special athletes and their families.
Athlete Welfare Manager for Special Olympics Jamaica, Annmarie Fearon Anderson, thanked the JCF and Lasco for their thoughtful gesture.
“Some of our athletes are vulnerable and the gesture is well-appreciated at this time,” she said.
Lasco’s Corporate Programs Manager, Renee Rose, said the company, in conjunction with its charitable arm, the Lascelles Chin Foundation, did not hesitate at the opportunity to support the move by the local LETR committee.
“Lasco is a caring company and it’s all about supporting our fellow citizens; it’s a pleasure for us to be able to give back as we, as a nation, seek to fight this pandemic,” she said.
In the meantime, in the interest of public safety, and in observance of the stipulated measures to reduce the transmission of the Coronavirus, the LETR for Special Olympics fundraising event has been postponed.
Originally scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at the Police Officers’ Club, this year’s LETR offered health and road race enthusiasts the usual 5K Run/Walk, as well as the opportunity to plunge in ice-cold water in support of sending Jamaica’s Special Olympians to the 2021 World Special Olympic Games.
A new date will be announced soon. For information, please call 876-805-4107.
