The Mustique Charitable Foundation (MCF) is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Hands Across the Sea (HATS) to strengthen literacy across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For the school year 2025-2026, this collaboration expanded to include the Early Pages Programme, an initiative designed to introduce preschoolers to the joy of reading at the earliest stages of their learning journey.

Through this programme, 20 preschools across the country received age-appropriate, engaging books to spark curiosity and build foundational literacy skills. In addition, 14 primary and secondary schools received new books, learning kits, and library materials to support remediation, revitalise school libraries, and restore resources impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Overall, more than 5,000 brand-new books and learning materials were donated, benefiting approximately 2,600 students and educators.

This initiative builds on nearly two decades of collaboration between MCF and HATS, during which more than 145,000 books have been donated to schools throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Together, MCF and HATS continue to invest in literacy as a cornerstone of education and community development.

Reflecting on the importance of these initiatives, MCF Project Director – Natalia Gill, though absent at the handover, sent a few words highlighting that this programme fully aligns with the Ministry’s early childhood curriculum, alongside continued investment in remedial reading, special needs support, and library rejuvenation, which reflects our shared commitment to equity, resilience, and opportunity in education.

By extending literacy support to early childhood centres, primary and secondary schools, and communities affected by devastating natural disasters, MCF and HATS are ensuring that students across the nation have the tools and inspiration they need to succeed. This partnership continues to evolve, guided by a shared vision to create brighter futures—one book at a time.