The Antigua and Barbuda Students’ Association (ABSA) at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, has partnered with the Hopeful Hearts Foundation (HHF) to provide donations, mentorship and encouragement to residents of the Sunshine Home for Girls.

Members of both organizations visited the Johnson’s Point facility on Saturday, August 8, 2026, as part of a joint community outreach initiative aimed at supporting and empowering young women.

During the visit, the groups donated a range of essential items, including hygiene and hair-care products, school supplies and books.

However, the outreach extended well beyond the presentation of supplies, with ABSA and HHF representatives spending time engaging the girls in conversations about their personal development, relationships and future aspirations.

Discussions addressed consent and healthy boundaries, bullying, resilience and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. The girls were also encouraged to dream beyond their present circumstances and to recognize the importance of networking and developing meaningful relationships that could help create future educational and career opportunities.

The interactive sessions allowed the residents to ask questions and openly share their experiences, interests and perspectives with members of the visiting group.

Representatives also used the opportunity to learn more about the Sunshine Home for Girls and its longstanding contribution to the protection and development of vulnerable young women in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Home was established on March 27, 1992, by Major Joycelyn Jonas-Maxam, who was moved to act after becoming concerned about the abuse being experienced by young girls in Antigua.

Operating under the Salvation Army, the Sunshine Home provides protection, education, medical and emotional support, spiritual guidance and opportunities for residents to build self-worth and independence.

More than 180 girls have benefited from the Home since its establishment. Major Barbara Forrester currently serves as administrator.

The Hopeful Hearts Foundation, founded by National Youth Ambassador Kristine Louisa, focuses on youth empowerment, education, humanitarian assistance and community development. Its work has included school outreach programmes, motivational initiatives, donation drives and other community service projects.

For ABSA, the initiative represents an effort to extend the association’s contribution beyond the university campus and remain connected to the development of young people in Antigua and Barbuda.

The partnership also highlighted the impact that can be achieved when youth organizations combine resources, mentorship and community service.

The visit ended on a message of hope and empowerment, with the girls encouraged to recognize their potential, choose positive influences, remain resilient and pursue their ambitions with confidence, regardless of their present circumstances.