FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer to Local Kids
The countdown to Christmas is on, but Christmas came early for more than 120 Bahamian kids from various children’s homes in Nassau, thanks to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism’s long-standing partner, Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA).
This year, it was the Carnival Victory that put smiles on the faces of scores of local children when it hosted the FCCA Holiday Gift Project on December 9.
The cruise line welcomed 128 children from the Bahamas Emergency Hostel, Dream Chasers, Bilney Lane School and Nazareth Centre on board for a fun-filled day complete with games, performances, plenty of holiday atmosphere, refreshments and, of course, gifts. There was even a special visit from Santa and the Grinch.
Eva, the Youth Director on Carnival Victoria, said Carnival Cruise Lines takes pleasure in hosting the children.
“During the holidays we love to welcome them on board. We threw a party in their honor, played some games, we had food like snacks and beverages, we go back on the dance floor and we have a Christmas show,” she said.
“I can see on their faces that they definitely enjoy it. They are happy just to be on the ship. It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them. Carnival is a huge company and we definitely enjoy doing these kinds of activities. Not many kids have this kind of opportunity to see the ship and come cruising so we are definitely happy to have you guys on board.”
For the past 10 years, the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association has taken pride in bringing joy to children throughout the Caribbean during the holiday season.
The Ministry of Tourism’s Sr. Director of Cruise and Maritime Development, Mrs. Carla Stuart said the Ministry seeks to ensure that its partnerships have social components that benefit the Bahamian community.