The United Youth Movement Against Violence (UYMAV), on Monday hosted its Annual Children Christmas Party.
The one-day event which was held on Sunday, December 25, 2011 brought together over 300 children, between the ages, 2 to 16 years old. The Christmas Party, with its theme: “For The Love of The Children, Our Future” took place at UYMAV headquarters in Lousiana, Fendell Community, outside Monrovia.
During the UYMAV Children Party, Paul Dillon won the Joke Competition; Glory T. Clark got the ‘Best Dancer’ prize, Borbor Gonda clinched the ‘Best Songster’ reward and Fahnmusa Fahnbulleh walked away with the ‘Best Eater Award.’
According to UYMAV Executive Director, Mr. Sabato Neufville, the one-day event which brought together over 300 children from various communities in the Fendell area was a self-initiative project. The party began at 3:00pm and ended at 5:00 pm.
Refreshments and toys were distributed to each child free of charge.
The Children X-mas Party was also characterized by speeches about the essence of Christmas and non-violence approach to addressing problems in society.
The Coordinator for the Women Wing of UYMAV, Musulyn Ville, told our reporter the cost of the party was US$700.
She indicated that that the party was intended to keep children off the streets during the festive season.
She also said the party was aimed at cultivating unity in diversity, promoting acquaintances and fostering acts of good citizenship among kids.
Madam Ville lamented that during the festive season, many children roam street corners and various communities, not knowing where to go for celebration.
The UYMAV Women Coordinator stated that as a result some kids who are susceptible and vulnerable fall prey to accidents, violence; alcoholic beverages, and worst of all, young girls get raped.
The youth advocate said UYMAV deemed it prudent by instituting its Annual Children Christmas Party since 2006 so as to explore solutions and curtail these dreadful and gloomy situations which have to some extent cause the death of innocent children.
Madam Ville therefore cautioned parents and guardians to be mindful and vigilant about places and activities their children engage in especially on Christmas Day.
