Pollyanna Project supports Old Harbour High with heartfelt donation

Led by CEO Donna Moore-Stewart and her husband Carl Stewart, the organization donated two fully refurbished laptops and numerous branded shirts to the school. The heartfelt gesture aims to support students’ educational needs and foster school spirit, reinforcing the Pollyanna Project’s commitment to community upliftment and youth empowerment.

Moore-Stewart, a proud past student of what was then Old Harbour Secondary School, recently returned to her alma mater to make a generous donation through her charity.

“I was a student here. I walked these corridors, well, not these exact ones, as they’ve since been upgraded, but I’m loving the school. I haven’t been here in over 40 years, so it’s truly my pleasure to be in this space again,” she told a group of students, teaching and administrative staff. 

The Pollyanna Project, which began in 1994, was inspired by a request from her mother Carmen Hinds, now deceased. “My mother called and asked me to do something for the community. I was raised in Bodles Crescent, also known as ‘Bun Ground.’ She wanted us to host a Christmas treat for the children in the area. That first event catered to 34 children, and over the past 32 years, we’ve hosted more than 10,000 children,” Moore-Stewart recounted.

She added: “We provide basic necessities to those in need, particularly through education; offering school books and other vital resources.”

Over the years, the Pollyanna Project has partnered with various organizations with Moore-Stewart now representing NWA franchise the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Liberty, the current WNBA champions, in an official capacity.

“As my alma mater, this is where I got my start. My husband and I have always wanted to give back to Old Harbour High, but the timing never seemed right until now. And now is the perfect time,” she said. “Our work isn’t limited to Jamaica. We’ve supported communities in countries like South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and other Caribbean islands. We have partners there who help send children back to school and provide for their needs. People always ask me about Jamaica, and I tell them, ‘When I do Jamaica, I do Jamaica big.’”

As part of this initiative, laptops and sports shirts courtesy of the Brooklyn Nets were given to the Pollyanna Project, which Moore-Stewart redirect to Old Harbour High. “As soon as more shirts and devices arrive at the Pollyanna Project, they will be sent straight to Old Harbour High for distribution to the students who need them most,” noted the CEO.  

Mr. Stewart added that students from Old Harbour High also benefit from other community projects. “When we work in surrounding areas, students from Old Harbour High receive book bags, laptops, and other resources. We’ve also spoken with Mr. [Lynton] Weir about some upcoming projects, and we’re committed to working with him to bring them to life,” he said.

Tricia Hyde-Campbell, one of the school’s four guidance counsellors, expressed her appreciation. 
“This contribution means so much to Old Harbour High School. Many of our students will definitely benefit from it. We’re truly thankful and grateful to be part of this project,” she said.

Senior Vice Principal Andre Hines also extended his gratitude to the Stewarts. He said: “We are very appreciative of the fact that you came. Not only are you a past student, but you also brought gifts and your husband along. The shirts look great, and we look forward to your return with more support. We’ll be sending photos of the students who receive the resources.”

Principal Lynton Weir also expressed thanks, saying: “I want to thank the Pollyanna Project and Mr. and Mrs. Stewart. Mrs. Stewart has made an impact globally and has now decided to invest in Jamaica. We need more Jamaicans who have achieved success to support not just Old Harbour High, but other schools as well. Our students just need a little help to become better versions of themselves. Pollyanna Project, you have done well and we are very appreciative of your efforts and pledges.” 

The laptops will be given to students most in need, as selected by teachers and guidance counsellors.