From Jamaica Observer

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Former West Indies batsman Brian Lara Monday donated J$500,000 to the Ministry of Youth and Culture to provide assistance to children in the care of the Child Development Agency (CDA).

A portion of the funds will also be used to assist a 15-year-old girl who is in need of a vital surgery, the Ministry said in release Monday.

According to the Ministry Lara was initially making a donation of $250,000, but admitted that after being in dialogue with Youth Minister Lisa Hanna over the past couple months he decided to double the amount.

Lara said that the donation forms part of the work he intends to do to assist in the development of children and youth.

“It’s a great pleasure to be back in Jamaica. Hearing about the cases that have been going on in her field as the Youth Minister I feel it necessary as a Caribbean human being to try to make some sort of contribution, not just in my funds but in any way possible,” he said.

Noting that he is inspired by the enthusiasm of Jamaican youth, the former West Indies cricket captain said that he is encouraging all Jamaicans to strive to make a difference in the lives of children and young people for the New Year.

“The enthusiasm the youth have here, I love the whole vibrant way they live ….a lot of them weren’t as fortunate as I was to get the backing that I did but I’m sure the enthusiasm is still there and I would love to reach out and play a part in their future. Let’s put a good foot forward for 2014 and let’s try to make a difference,” said Lara.

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http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Brian-Lara-donates-J-500K-to-assist-children-s-homes-in-Jamaica