Pints, pizza pull people together for Rotary polio fight

A joint effort by the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of Barbados saw supporters gather at Carlisle Brewing Inc. microbrewery at Fontabelle for the “Pints & Pizza for Polio” fundraiser, held in recognition of World Polio Day last Friday.

The event united Rotarians, Rotaractors, and members of the public in supporting the worldwide campaign to eradicate polio, with a lively evening of locally crafted pints, fresh pizza, games and live entertainment.

Hundreds turned out to back Rotary International’s ongoing campaign to end polio, a disease that persists in only a small number of countries worldwide, but which remains a priority for international health agencies.
Proceeds from the event go to The Rotary Foundation’s PolioPlus Fund, which backs immunisation, surveillance and community education in regions where polio is still endemic. In a boost for the campaign, every dollar raised will be matched 2-to-1 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

President Andre Wharton (Rotary Club West), speaking on behalf of Presidents Jacklyn Broomes (Rotary Club South) and Jeff Evelyn (Rotary Club Barbados), highlighted the significance of the international partnership and Barbados’ role in the effort.

“For more than three decades, Rotary has been at the forefront of the global fight to eradicate polio. Here in Barbados, we’re proud to play our part through our End Polio Now fundraising efforts,” he said. “Tonight’s event reminds us that even small acts — like sharing a pint or a slice — can have a powerful global impact.”

Thanks were extended to Carlisle Brewing, volunteers and patrons for their support. Rotary has led global polio eradication initiatives for over 35 years, reducing cases globally by 99.9 per cent through expanded vaccination and education.

(PR/BT)