GraceKennedy Invests J$70 Million in Back-to-School Initiatives

GraceKennedy (GK) has invested over J$70 million in back-to-school initiatives for the 2024/2025 academic year.

Transformative Power of Education

Commenting on GK’s annual back-to-school support, GK Group CEO Don Wehby highlighted the transformative power of education, stating, “By supporting education, GK is empowering our youth to unlock their potential and investing in the future of Jamaica. Over the years, I have witnessed first-hand the positive impact this educational support has on students and their families. It is a source of great pride to see GK expand our reach each year and make a lasting difference in the lives of so many young Jamaicans.”

He added, “As they embark on a new academic year, we encourage all students to embrace challenges, pursue their passions, and strive for excellence. The entire GK team wishes you the very best!”

Back-to-School Support

GK’s annual back-to-school support is led by GraceKennedy’s two foundations, the Grace & Staff Community Development Foundation (Grace & Staff) and the GK Foundation (GKF).

Tuition Assistance Program

This year, Grace & Staff has expanded its tuition assistance program, increasing its investment from J$34.9 million to J$40.4 million this year. The program supports over 1,500 Jamaican secondary and tertiary students annually, covering school fees, lunch, and travel costs.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Meanwhile, GKF will award over 100 scholarships and bursaries valued at more than J$27 million. Through the GK Campus Connect Food Bank, GKF will also provide monthly grocery packages to 300 students from the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus, University of Technology, and Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, while supporting broader feeding programs on each campus throughout the year.

Subsidiaries’ Support

GK’s subsidiaries are also actively supporting back-to-school initiatives across the island with a range of promotions and donations.

The Grace Food Festival on August 24 provided free medical and dental checks for children, along with giveaways, special value packs, and prizes. CBL also donated personal care products to 1,000 students at UWI Mona’s Orientation. Grace Foods, World Brands Services, Consumer Brands Limited (CBL) and Hi-Lo Food Stores are all offering promotional discounts and giveaways. Within the GK Financial Group, GK Money Services/Western Union (GKMS/WU) customers receiving remittances – whether in-store, via direct-to-bank, or through the GK One app – can enter to win one of 100 J$15,000 prizes for back-to-school expenses. GKMS is also hosting customer appreciation events at select locations island wide, distributing school bags, bottles, and notebooks.

Conclusion

GraceKennedy’s commitment to investing in the education of Jamaica’s youth is a testament to the company’s dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. Through its various back-to-school initiatives, GK is making a positive impact on the lives of thousands of students and their families.