Street Academy Spreads Hope, Feeds Over 400 Children at 25th Annual Dinner

STREET Academy, a non-governmental organization (NGO), brought joy to about 400 vulnerable children last Saturday at its 25th annual dinner party, held as part of Christmas festivities. The feast was designed to assure the children that society cares for them and values their wellbeing.

A variety of local dishes were served, carefully selected to match the children’s preferences. Ataa Lartey, Executive Director of the Academy, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the children, drawn from the Arts Centre community and surrounding areas, shared a meal and moments of joy.

“The initiative is meant to make the children feel valued and included in society. We might not be their biological parents, but it is our responsibility to help them grow, to shape and nurture them,” he said.

Mr. Lartey added that the initiative would continue with similar activities on December 26 and January 1. He explained that the programme aims to support families who lack the means to care for their children during the festive season and inspire the children to work hard and contribute positively to their communities.

Beyond feeding, the programme seeks to nurture the children into responsible citizens. He cited past beneficiaries who had excelled, including Abraham Mensah, a silver medalist for Ghana at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, as a product of the Academy.

STREET Academy operates as a three-year bridge programme preparing children for mainstream education, the public school system, and vocational training. The initiative targets the most vulnerable children and is fully free, providing sponsorship for books, uniforms, and two meals daily.

Dr. John David Arnold, CEO and Founder of Portable Practical Educational Preparation Inc. (PPEP), a longtime sponsor of the Academy, noted that partnerships with STREET Academy had helped develop its infrastructure to improve the children’s welfare.

“Through our collaboration, we realized the children needed essential facilities such as a kitchen, toilets, and a clinic,” Dr. Arnold said. “It has been a fulfilling partnership, and we are proud to support the Academy.” He added that PPEP provides monthly financial support to sustain the Academy’s operations and ensure the wellbeing of the children.

By Spectator Reporter

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