GREAT BAY--Longtime community contributors Cesar Gomez and Mayra Provence have expanded their back-to-school support initiative, donating more than 20 pairs of shoes to Oranje School and additional pairs to the Belvedere Community Center as they continue helping children and families prepare for the new academic year.
The latest contributions follow their recent donation of more than 20 pairs of brand-name Nike and New Balance shoes to Sister Borgia Primary School, bringing their back-to-school effort to multiple locations across St. Maarten.
The shoes were purchased with their own funds and are intended for children and families who can make the greatest use of the assistance. Gomez and Provence said their approach remains focused on identifying practical needs in the community and responding where they are able.
With families facing the combined cost of uniforms, books, school supplies, transportation and footwear at the start of a new school year, Gomez and Provence chose to concentrate part of their efforts on providing shoes to children who need them.
The donation to Oranje School added more than 20 pairs to the initiative, while several additional pairs were provided through the Belvedere Community Center for distribution within the community.
Gomez said the start of a new school year is an important moment not only for students, but also for the parents, guardians, teachers and school staff who support them throughout the year.
“To every student returning to the classroom, believe in yourself, take your education seriously and remember that every school day is another opportunity to learn something that can help shape your future. Do not be afraid to ask questions, work hard and support each other,” Gomez said.
“To the parents and guardians, we know that preparing children for school comes with sacrifices, sometimes sacrifices that others never see. Continue encouraging them and reminding them of the importance of their education. Your support at home is just as important as what happens in the classroom.”
Gomez also recognized teachers and other education professionals as they begin another school year.
“To our teachers and school staff, thank you for the patience, commitment and responsibility you carry every day. You are helping to shape the next generation of St. Maarten. We wish you strength and success for the school year ahead, and we hope every student enters the classroom knowing that the entire community wants to see them succeed.”
Gomez and Provence have been involved in community-support activities for several years, including food drives, school-related initiatives and direct assistance to individuals and families. Much of their work has been undertaken through personal initiative and financed from their own resources.
Their recent school-shoe donations reflect the same approach. Rather than organizing a single large event, they have worked through schools and community organizations that can help identify where the assistance is most needed.
The pair previously indicated that they are exploring ways to formalize their community activities, which could provide a stronger structure for future school-support initiatives, food drives and other community projects, as well as partnerships with individuals and businesses interested in contributing.
For Gomez and Provence, however, the immediate focus remains straightforward: helping children begin the school year with one less concern and continuing to give back wherever they can make a practical difference.
