A significant number of Vincentians remain in shelters as the economy of the small Caribbean island continues to face dire challenges.
This, amid the need for ongoing relief and aid, according to authoritative sources in Kingstown and Barbados.
President of the Rotary Club of Barbados South Mike Forde, who has been in contact with Rotary colleagues in St Vincent said that as of Monday night there were about 15, 000 persons in shelters.
“I know that because there is not much mention of La Soufriere in recent times that people here in Barbados might think that the situation is all over and life for Vincentians has returned to normal. But that is far from the truth,” he remarked.
Private shelters fluctuate and evacuees are estimated at more than 15,000 persons,” Forde said. Rotarians continue to support the relief effort in St Vincent.
“The members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Barbados (ICAB) recently handed over a donation of $10,650.
The three Rotary clubs in Barbados immediately responded with bottled water following the start of eruptions on April 9, this year. Forde said of the 1,955 adults in public shelters 30 per cent are females.
“ICAB members were moved by the devastation caused by the eruptions of the volcano in St Vincent coming so soon after the severe dislocation and hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
We were deeply concerned for our brothers and sisters in St Vincent,” President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Barbados Lydia McCollin said.
The ICAB president added: “We believe we must give of our own time, talent and treasure to provide relief when necessary and assist in the development of Barbados and the Caribbean.
“These people still need help and support in the form of water and certain essentials and medical supplies,” the Rotary president said. (HH)
