New programme will provide back-to-school vouchers to students across Trinidad and Tobago

COUVA, Trinidad & Tobago – Thursday 27th August 2026 – Five hundred students across Trinidad and Tobago will receive support with textbooks, uniforms and other essential school supplies through Classroom Ready, a new TT$500,000 back-to-school programme launched by the Massy Foundation (Trinidad and Tobago).

Each student will receive a voucher valued at TT$1,000, helping families meet some of the costs associated with preparing children for the new academic year.

The programme was officially launched at Massy Gas Products in Point Lisas, where principals from participating schools in Trinidad accepted vouchers on behalf of their students. A separate presentation will take place in Tobago before the start of the school year.

Schools were selected through an assessment that considered the level of financial and social need within their communities, geographic location and access to existing corporate support. The participating schools will identify students who would benefit most from the assistance.

Mr David Affonso Chairman of the Massy Foundation said the programme reflects Massy’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people and supporting the communities in which it operates.

“The start of a new school year should be a time of excitement and possibility for every child. For many families, however, the cost of textbooks, uniforms and other supplies can bring considerable pressure.

“Through Classroom Ready, we are helping 500 students begin the school year with the essential materials they need to participate fully and approach their education with greater confidence. Supporting education is an investment in our children, our communities and the future of Trinidad and Tobago.”

Mr Affonso said Classroom Ready also forms part of Massy’s broader commitment to education and youth development across the Caribbean. Other Massy businesses are supporting back-to-school activities in their respective communities, including initiatives in Guyana, St Lucia and Jamaica.

Delivering remarks at the event, Mrs Nadia McCarthy, Massy Group Senior Vice President, People & Culture, said the programme was developed to direct support to schools and families where it can make a meaningful difference.

“Access to education is more than having a place in a classroom, it is a young person, who also needs the tools, support and environment that allows them to participate fully once they get there. We worked closely with educators and community stakeholders to understand where the need was greatest. School principals know their communities and are well placed to ensure that this support reaches students who need it most.”

“This first year will also help us learn from the schools, students and families involved so that we can strengthen the programme and extend its impact over time.”

Ms Marieanna Gervais, Principal of Todd’s Road RC School, welcomed the initiative and the practical assistance it will provide.

“For some families, preparing a child for school requires difficult financial choices. This support will ease part of that burden and help students begin the term with the supplies they need. We are grateful to the Massy Foundation for listening to our schools and investing directly in our children.”

Participating schools include:

Trinidad

• Point Fortin East Secondary School
• Claxton Bay Senior Anglican Primary School
• Todd’s Road RC Primary School
• Moruga Secondary School
• Maracas RC Primary School
• Mayaro Secondary School
• Arima West Government Primary School
• St. Anthony’s RC Primary School

Tobago

• Goodwood Secondary School
• Roxborough Secondary School

The Massy Foundation intends to develop Classroom Ready into an annual programme, using the experience and feedback from its pilot year to deepen its impact and reach more students in the future.