During the Miss Jamaica Universe 2008 pageant, April Jackson pledged to help children in need. After winning the crown, April did everything in her power to accomplished that goal.

Last Friday, April, with the help of the National Commercial Bank (NCB) Foundation, donated two gas stoves and an industrial sewing machine to the mentally challenged students of the Carberry Court School.

The equipment will be used to improve the school's successful vocational programme.

Jackson established her Give Children a Future (GCAF) Foundation during her reign as Miss Jamaica Universe.

Building kids for future

The focus of the charity is to make a difference in the lives of foster children. April has partnered with corporate entities to donate towards improving the facilities of several children's homes across Jamaica.

The Carberry Court School, which is associated with the National Children's Home of Jamaica, currently has 139 students enrolled. The school has the capacity to take care of mild to severely mentally challenged children. They are taught practical work skills, giving them the ability to take care of themselves as adults when they leave the school.

Sheree Martin, chief executive officer of the NCB Foundation, expressed the commitment of her organisation to programmes such as these.

"We believe in encouraging all young people to make use of whatever opportunities they have to help others in need. We know that if we all come together, we will one day succeed in our goal of building a better Jamaica," Martin said.