SJM Resorts said in a statement yesterday that it has donated pre-loved* children’s books collected from among its staff members to the Cradle of Hope Association and Lar de Nossa Senhora** da Penha of Caritas Macau earlier this month.
According to the statement, the integrated resort (IR) operator collected the books between May and June, adding that last year’s initiative garnered “enthusiastic support” from staff.
This marked the second year that SJM has donated second-hand children’s books to the Cradle of Hope Association. The company and the Macau Science Centre collaborated in bringing a science outreach activity to the association’s Fountain of Hope, presenting a science-themed play titled “The Tree of Life: Darwin” to 24 children on September 1, the statement added. The play is part of the “Science and Reading Literacy Enhancement Programme” sponsored by SJM and supported by the Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ). An impromptu liquid nitrogen science experiment was also held.
Moreover, staff visited Lar de Nossa Senhora da Penha of Caritas Macau to play fun and interactive games with 10 children on September 7, who also “used their creativity to create a hopeful vision for a brighter future”. SJM staff also presented books and a story-telling session, while new stationery and toys, along with SJM “Sam the Rooster” mascot toys, were given out.
The SJM statement noted that the aim of the initiative was to “convey SJM’s care for Macau’s youth; encourage the young generation to develop good reading habits; and instil a positive culture of reading throughout the community”.
*Used; previously owned by somebody else.
** Portuguese for “Home of Our Lady” (= Mary)
This handout photo taken earlier this month and provided yesterday by SJM Resorts shows a staff member reading to children at Lar De Nossa Senhora Da Penha of Caritas Macau.
