(CMR) CAYS Foundation Bonaventure Children’s Home officially opened a newly remodeled wheelchair-accessible multipurpose residential unit in West Bay this week.
This achievement highlights the remarkable power of collaboration between the public and private sectors, fostering a supportive partnership for Cayman’s youth.
The Ministry of Investment, Innovation and Social Development was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition with an essential contribution of $100,000 last year, providing the necessary seed investment for the remodeled Children’s Home. Following this investment, CAYS was then able to generate additional support (financial and physical assistance) from several private sector organizations, whose combined efforts transformed the vision into reality.
At the heart of this project is a dedicated team led by CAYS Board Chairman Garth Arch and Keith Boyle, General Manager at CAYS. Their steadfast commitment and tireless efforts, alongside the dedicated staff, have been pivotal in making this dream come true. The donations of time, money, and supplies from all involved have been crucial in paving the way for a brighter future for our island's youth.
Acting Premier André Ebanks, who gave remarks at the opening ceremony, commended the initiative, stating: “What was foremost in the decision to provide this investment was the CAYS Board’s new long-term vision for this important Foundation, to help overcome current challenges and provide a fresh outlook for the future.”
“The remodeled multipurpose residential unit is part of the initial phase of this vision for which we felt duty-bound to assist and provide a spark for private sector collaboration. As a result, I am heartened that this project provides a shining example of what can be achieved when the government and private sector unite to invest and innovate a worthy social development cause,” Ebanks added.
The Minister said Bonaventure Children's Home now stands as a remarkable demonstration of the transformative power of collective effort.
“As we celebrate this Grand Opening, we look forward to the positive impact these new homes will have on the lives of our young residents, providing them with a secure, nurturing, and empowering environment where they can call home,” he added.
Keith Boyle, CAYS General Manager, said the organization “is eternally grateful to our community partners who have made this project a reality through their donations of time, expertise, and materials.”
He said, “Upgrades to a home are expensive, and ours were extensive, meaning that contributions from Apex Group, Caribbean Partitions, Tyson Co, DAC, Corporate Electric, Eccleston Electric, Elite Marble and Tile, Rotary Clubs, and Iron Shore, among others, have been essential. A special thank must be given to Michelle Butler from Design Studio, who has been instrumental in planning, designing, and furnishing the home, and to Shawn Maxwell of Arch and Godfrey, who was an excellent Project Manager.”
Looking ahead, CAYS is excited to announce plans to upgrade the rest of its facilities. Those interested in contributing to future projects should email [email protected].
The Children & Youth Services (CAYS) Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering youth and their families experiencing difficulties in achieving their full human potential. CAYS Foundation offers trauma-informed, round-the-clock therapeutic care to children and young people in need of care and protection. The Foundation operates the Bonaventure and Frances Bodden Children’s Homes and Phoenix House. CAYS has operated since 2003 and provides care for up to 34 young people across its facilities.
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