The Trinidad and Tobago Association for the Hearing Impaired (TTAHI) hosted their Annual Blessing of the Creche and Tree Lighting Ceremony yesterday - December 5, 2019 at the Association's Compound on Wrightson Road Port of Spain. The event started off with welcome remarks from TTAHI's Board Member and Public Relations Officer, Stephen Doookharan. Quota International's President, Michelle Low Chew Tung also brought welcome remarks and indicated how pleased the organisation was to partner with TTAHI for this event.
The opening prayer and blessing of the Creche was led by Vicar General of the Catholic Archdiocese of Port of Spain Fr. Martin Sirju who expressed that the true meaning and focus at this time was on the good news that came with the annunciation that a child was to be born who would become the saviour of the world.
Also bringing greetings from the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services was Permanent Secretary, Jacinta Bailey Sobers who indicated that the Ministry looks forward to a continued working relationship with the Association in the future. PS Sobers told the audience that the Ministry continues to fulfil its mandate in advocating for and supporting persons with disabilities, to ensure that no one is left behind. She shared that the true meaning of Christmas must not only be in the preparations but in the fact that Christmas brings a sense of renewal which is symbolic of the birth of Christ.
Entertainment was provided by Parang Group - Una Sola Vos and La Familia De La Parranda, Audrey Jeffers School for the Deaf, Cascade School for the Deaf, Marilyn Williams and much more offerings were well received by those present. Two major highlights of the evening however, were the lighting of the Tree and the entry of Santa Claus on a fire truck. Santa made his way stage side and distributed gifts to all children present. The MSDFS was pleased to be part of this event.