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Here’s the updated SKN Times news article with your new details and transcript integrated:

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — September 1, 2025 — The Concerned Citizens for a Better McKnight (CCFABM) once again demonstrated its commitment to education and community upliftment with the presentation of backpacks filled with school supplies to every single student of the Halliday-Smith Primary School. The gesture, which took place during the school’s Opening of Year Assembly at the Basseterre Church of God, ensured that all 140 students were fully equipped as they embarked on the 2025–2026 academic year.

15 Years of Giving Back

This year’s presentation carried special significance, marking the 15th consecutive year of CCFABM’s school supplies initiative—a tradition that began in 2011. Group representative Wilson Paulius, delivering the main address, highlighted the milestone and reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to empowering the youth of McKnight.

“To commemorate our 15th anniversary, every student—yes, all 140 students—will receive a backpack filled with essential school supplies,” Paulius declared.

What the Backpacks Included

Each backpack contained:

• 2 exercise books
• 2 pencils
• 2 pencil-top erasers
• 2 pens
• 1 sharpener
• 1 ruler
• 1 pencil case
• 1 pair of scissors
• 1 box of crayons
• 2 large erasers
• 1 glue stick

“This contribution will greatly assist parents with school expenses and give students the tools they need to succeed,” Paulius noted.

Presentation to Students

The distribution of backpacks was led by notable presenters:

• Ms. Karen Dickenson – Kindergarten, Grades 1 & 2
• Ms. Valerie McIntosh – Grades 3 & 4
• Dr. Mervyn Laws – Grades 5 & 6

Recognizing Excellence

Earlier this year, at the school’s Graduation Ceremony in July, the group also presented the prestigious Triple “A” Award—recognizing excellence in Academics, Athletics, and Attitude—to N’Kenya Francis. The award included a trophy and an EC$700 gift certificate to assist with uniforms and textbooks for high school.

Members and Supporters

CCFABM acknowledged both overseas and local members whose dedication continues to sustain the project. Overseas members include Seymour “Tally” Davis (Founder), Lloyd Hendricks, and Hildred Rawlins, while local members are Bernard (BT) Rawlins, Ken Martin, Cheralyn Adolphin, Sylvia Pemberton-Richards, Tracey Newton-Herbert, and Wilson Paulius.

Special thanks were extended to:

• The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis for granting duty-free concessions.
• Sandra Wallace, overseas shipping agent, for providing free freight services.
• Former residents of McKnight, both overseas and at home, for their generous contributions.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Closing his remarks, Paulius encouraged students to embrace the school’s opening theme—“Dream Big, Work Hard, Stay Focused; You Can Make A Difference In The World.”

“Knowledge is power,” he reminded them. “Keep learning, keep growing, and continue to make yourselves, your families, and your community proud.”

With this milestone presentation, CCFABM has not only relieved the financial burden for parents but has also sent a powerful message of encouragement and community support to the young learners of McKnight.

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