Over $3 000 in vouchers for HIV/AIDS food bank

The Division of Culture marked World AIDS Day on Friday with a donation of over $3 000 in food vouchers to the HIV/AIDS Food Bank and a health expo at SkyMall. 

The event, which offered free health screenings and cultural performances, highlighted efforts to combat HIV-related stigma and promote holistic wellness among Barbadians.

At a brief opening ceremony, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, Dr Shantal Munro-Knight noted the division’s commitment to supporting individuals living with the disease stating, “This initiative reflects our care for those people living in our society that are living with HIV.”

Noting that culture goes beyond performances, she said, “It’s also about how we use it to educate and build awareness and make a difference within our communities and Barbados. This initiative is a practical example of that.”

During the presentation, the minister underscored the importance of well-being and cautioned against discrimination. 

Also addressing the opening ceremony was Director of the National Well-Being and HIV Commission, Lynn Armstrong who emphasised the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in addressing HIV/AIDS.

“We at the National Well-Being and HIV Commission, in partnership with the Division of Culture, take pride in having you today as we reflect on World AIDS Day and the ongoing work being done in Barbados to combat HIV-related stigma and discrimination, support those living with the virus, and ultimately strengthen the health and well-being of our island,” Armstrong said.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture Senator Shantal Munro- Knight presents vouchers valued over $3 000 to Janice Williams of the AIDS Food Bank.

She also noted the transformative role of culture in addressing health issues. 

“As we know, culture is the heartbeat of our society. It shapes our values, communicates our truths, and inspires transformation,” Armstrong said, adding that the commission’s collaboration with the Division of Culture has enabled impactful initiatives using the arts, storytelling, and poetry to spark dialogue and challenge stereotypes.

The health expo offered screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, prostate health, and breast cancer, highlighting the activity’s focus on holistic wellness. 

Armstrong also announced the upcoming launch of the fifth annual Love Safely Literary Competition, a platform for creative expression aimed at fostering empathy and challenging stigma.

The programme included performances by a spoken word artiste and a drama piece, which both reinforced messages of compassion and understanding. 

“The initiatives we undertake at the National Well-Being and HIV Commission are not just about spreading knowledge, but fostering empathy. They remind us that behind every statistic is a real person, a friend, a family member, a community member deserving of respect, dignity, and support,” Armstrong said.

The officials noted that the event forms part of AIDS Awareness Week with activities aimed at education, advocacy, and creating a more inclusive society for those living with HIV/AIDS. (SM)