The Tribune

BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT – Bernadette Christie, wife of Prime Minister Perry Christie, visited the Grand Bahama Children’s Home yesterday.

She was very impressed with the facility and the warm welcome she received from the children.

Mrs Christie is in Grand Bahama to attend the Roaring 20’s Ball, which is being held tonight at the Grand Lucaya Resort to raise funds for the Home.

She was taken on an official tour of the Home, located at the Tripp Circle, around 4pm. The facility currently caters to around 30 orphan children.

The children sang and danced for Mrs Christie, who hugged every child following the performance.

“I am a new grandmother and I just love children. I was so excited about coming here to see the little darlings and they did not disappoint me,” she said.

“I love the grounds and the buildings, and the people involved in the home are committed and passionate about what they are doing.

“Unfortunately, everything requires money, and so it is nice to look at these things but I know it is really a struggle to keep these buildings open.”

Mrs Christie urged individuals and the corporate community to support the home.

“The corporate community has been generous, but they have to continue to give because (the home) is not an incoming producing facility, and people will have to continue to contribute.

“And so I am hoping they will open their hearts and pockets and help the GB Children’s Home,” she said.

GB Children’s Home committee member Geneva Rutherford thanked the GB community for their continued support over the years.

She said the home is in need of funds.

“We need money to pay the utility bills, to purchase food and clothing, and we have to provide the children with 24-hour care seven days a week,” she said.