Local charity spreads joy, support community during festive season

Local charity — ThenWhat? — has been spreading joy and supporting the community during the festive season.

In a news release the charity announced the successful culmination of its 2023 Food Hamper and Toy Drive.

In collaboration with corporate Barbados, private donors, and the generous contributions of two local schools, the charity said it has marked its third year to this impactful initiative.

“Over 60 families received food hampers, and more than 100 children were gifted during the toy drive, which concluded on December 16 and 17,” the charity said in the release.

“The heartfelt efforts of corporate entities, such as Barbados Mills Limited, played a pivotal role, acting as the backbone of the project. The Coleridge and Parry School, along with Hipac, provided essential food items, and St Winifred’s School, JP Marshall, and other contributors surprised the charity with additional toy donations.”

Samantha Hazlewood-Ermay, President Trustee, expressed gratitude, stating, “This year, the support from Barbados Mills Limited was monumental. We also appreciate the contributions from Coleridge and Parry School, Hipac, St Winifred’s School, and JP Marshall.”

In addition to corporate support, the charity received overwhelming assistance from compassionate Barbadians, including the Light & Power Employees Cooperative Credit Union, Imagining & Ultrasound and the Sandals Foundation.

The charity said it has extended its outreach, providing support to other charities with food items and toys.

While the charity traditionally focuses on assisting vulnerable single parents, with a special emphasis on single fathers, this year saw a thoughtful inclusion of elderly individuals in the donation list.

The charity said the “Hamper of Hope” programme is next on its agenda, spanning three months and aiming to assist a minimum of 10 families at a time.

(PR)