Recently, over 300 guests gathered at Government House or the Jersey Child Care Trust’s (JCCT) Summer Garden Party – a celebration of community support for the Charity’s work with children and families across the Island.
Supporters, funders, nursery leaders, professional partners, the JCCT team and families whom the Trust supports, came together to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of live music, local food, summer sunshine and children’s activities.
The event was generously hosted by JCCT Patrons, His Excellency Vice Admiral Sir Jerry and Lady Kyd, who welcomed guests to the garden and marquee at Government House. They were met by the JCCT’s four young ambassador’s Henry, Leo, Lili and Manita.
Executive Director of the JCCT Fiona Vacher thanked both the Patrons and guests for their ongoing support, the event sponsors and participants, and invited children to enjoy bouncy castles, garden games, sensory activities and more.
“Today is a celebration. A celebration of our Charity, the Jersey Child Care Trust, that is helping hundreds of children across Jersey to have their best start in life. Every single one of you here today has made that happen in some way; so thank you very much.
“It’s not just the thousands of children that we have helped over the years. It’s not just those children and their families – the JCCT is transforming other lives in Jersey, including everyone here today.
“Whether you’re a donor and have donated money, a parent, a professional partner, whether you work for or volunteer for the Trust, I know personally that we are making a difference for ourselves and each other. So thank you all for your help and support and involvement with this Charity.”
His Excellency addressed the gathering:
“I want to thank everyone for coming along today and want to say how much this Charity means to Karen and I. As well as being parents ourselves, we are always delighted to support a Charity involved with youth development and education. We are also very much aware how aligned the JCCT is with the Princess of Wales’ Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
“Having been in the Royal Navy for 38 years, 80% of my ships’ companies were aged between 16 and 23; so I saw first hand the effects different backgrounds and experiences in childhood can have on young people.
“So, it’s not just about children – it’s about what they become. These young people here today will become young adults. There’s nothing more important than giving them a great foundation, because good foundations will make society better – and these children are our future.”
His Excellency thanked the sponsors, the helpers, the Board of the JCCT and, to rapturous applause from the audience, gave a personal thank you to Fiona Vacher for her enthusiasm, dedication and energy as ‘commander in charge’ of the Charity.
Lady Kyd reminded the audience of the importance of early years and how critical the first five years of a child’s life are.
“90% of a brain’s development happens in those first five years. The changes that we make and the experiences that we have in those five years are long lasting. They make an impact on your health, your social development and on the people you become.
“The JCCT provides the highest quality childcare, to give our children the best opportunities for the future. We are really passionate about this and are delighted to work with the Trust.”
The event was supported by sponsors RFS International and Little Lux Co., with additional contributions from several local businesses.
Opening with saxophone sounds from Jenna Smart and an upbeat summer DJ set from DJ Mel, guests enjoyed Fluke Vodka cocktails courtesy of The Royal Jersey Distillery Company Ltd, served by volunteer Marcus Calvani and fresh local oysters provided by The Jersey Oyster Co. were expertly shucked by volunteer Joe Bouchard, while the chatter and laughter of children could be heard all across the gardens.
Reflecting on the event, Fiona Vacher commented:
“Our Summer Garden Party was a superb celebration. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us and made it an event to remember.
“We are deeply grateful to our Patrons, His Excellency and Lady Kyd, for so generously opening the gardens and marquee of Government House to us. Their unfaltering and impactful support means so much to our Charity and the families we serve.”
Photographs thanks to Dasa Wharton Photography
