The Chewstick Foundation is focusing resources and efforts on its new creative hub rather than hosting the Good Friday KiteFest or the annual Beachfest Emancipation Celebration this year.

The charity is working towards the completion of the Chewstick Culture Hub on Front Street, which is yet to officially open.

Gavin Djata Smith, the executive director and founder of Chewstick, said: “The board and executive of the Chewstick Foundation carefully considered how not hosting these events might impact our community and ultimately reached the view that working towards opening The Chewstick Culture Hub has to be prioritised at this time.

“These events require significant manpower and investment financially, administratively and logistically and, unfortunately, due to challenges with funding and capacity, we simply cannot do it.

“While it is unfortunate to forego these events this year, we hope this will put us in a stronger position to deliver improved and more sustainable community events for 2017 and beyond”.

The Culture Hub aims to provide a safe space for “learning, diverse convergence and positive interaction for Bermuda’s polarised community”.

Mr Smith added: “This tool will create ongoing opportunities to heal age old wounds that stifle collective growth, and will help to fortify and strengthen Bermuda’s creative community.

“At this time we need to focus on doing all we can to get the doors of the new Culture Hub open.

“We appreciate your understanding, during these challenging times and are grateful for the community’s support over this past year and look forward to increased partnerships, success and vibrancy into the future. We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday and encourage people to participate in the season; whether it be flying kites in the neighbourhood, joining in the festivities in St David’s, or enjoying the natural atmosphere at Horseshoe Bay.”

Mr Smith said he was hoping that Chewstick could return to Horseshoe Bay in 2017 with a revitalised Good Friday KiteFest and Beachfest.

• Anyone wishing to help in the efforts to complete the hub are encouraged to get involved by contacting The Chewstick Foundation at 292-2439 or e-mailing info@chewstick.org