BUSHY PARK UNITED CHURCH,

Ramble, Llandewey P.O. St. Thomas

The Bushy Park Basic School is now the primary outreach ministry of this congregation. This Basic School, started by the Church many years ago was taken away from the members and existed independently of the Church. In 1996, the under the present pastoral administration reclaimed the school, repaired the structure, upgraded the facilities, Installed a water tank and paid off all arrears owing to Jamaica Nutrition Holdings all at a cost of over $200,000.00. In place today is the restored lunchtime hot mail for the children. Attendance has increased to 37 children with 2 teachers.

The school receives the usual grant to pay teachers from the Ministry of Education. Parents contribute one-half the sum for lunches and the Church the other half in addition to all utilities and other needs.

PROPOSED SKILLS TRAINING CENTRE

The construction of a Skills Training Centre is being planned for the adults and young persons in the surrounding communities. This is an ecumenical/community project involving three other Churches in the area, namely, the Riverhead Baptist Church, The New Testament Church and the Seventh Day Adventists. The Centre proposes to offer training in garment making, cosmetology and computer technology with financial assistance from HEARVNTA.

A technical team from Webster Memorial of the relevant expertise has been assisting and architectural plans are now being prepared. It is hoped this Centre will be completed year 2002.