The 19th staging of the Council of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS) Games will be held today at the University of West Indies Bowl, starting at 8:30 a.m.

Over 800 athletes from nine agencies are down to take part in basketball, football, netball and track and field.

The agencies are Majesty Gardens, Joy Town, Rise Life, Boy's Brigade, Scouts Association, Special Olympics, Youth Opportunities Limited, Citizens Advice Bureau and Children and Community for Change, 3C's.

Jos Chambers, a founding member of the organising committee, said: "The aim is to bring together youth agencies of the CVSS to compete in a friendly atmosphere.

"We also want to sensitise the participants on the issues of productivity, health, violence and HIV and AIDS, and to also have disabled persons competing with able-bodied athletes," he said.

In addition to the games there will also be a number of booths promoting healthy lifestyle and environment awareness.

Children from the Bashy Bus Project will be providing entertainment.

- Robert Bailey