Several local causes and organisations have received financial support from CIBC FirstCaribbean and the lives of those with physical disabilities and cystic fibrosis is expected to improve as a result.
The bank recently met with and presented funds to the Thelma Vaughan Memorial Home and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Barbados. The Human Resource Management Association of Barbados (HRMAB) was also at the bank’s Barbados headquarters at Rendezvous, Christ Church, to receive a contribution.
The funds received by Thelma Vaughan are going towards the cost of reconstructing its utility building which, says Susan Wiles, Deputy Chairman, will cost about half a million dollars. “We’ve probably raised $450,000 so we’re almost there. This has taken us at least six or seven years to raise and there will be additional costs including the demolition of the old building.”
Ms. Wiles said the new utility building, which the home hopes to start this year, will also have a dedicated craft room where residents can practice a trade and sell products they create. “We think we can also expand our respite care programme when we get the new building,” she added.
Expressing gratitude to the bank, Ms. Wiles noted, “We’d like to thank the bank very much for its contribution especially since this is the Month of the Disabled. It will go a long way to getting us to our target.”
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Barbados (CFFB) also expressed thanks for the bank’s support of its work. President Michael Turton thanked the bank “for its contribution, its community outreach and helping us to achieve our objectives. We’re really appreciative.”
The CFFB recently staged a fundraising evening to raise monies to assist in the medical expenses, which can be as high as $20,000 a month, for several children. “What makes things difficult is that the disease is extremely expensive to manage. We rely on the private sector and initiatives we come up with to help.”
The foundation’s next event is a 5k run/walk on July 4 after which another donation will be made to the families of children with Cystic Fibrosis. More information on the work of the foundation is found on its Facebook page: www.facebook.com/cysticfibrosisbdos.
The bank also supported HRMAB with its week of activities designed to highlight the association as well as educate and sensitise the public about HR Management. President, Glenda Gilkes, thanked the bank for coming on board.
She said that the events held during the week were free to members and the public because the association wanted people to have access. “On one of the days, for example, we held an HR showcase for students in sixth form because we’re keen to engage with those in the education system. We were privileged to receive funding from the bank to assist in our outreach and hope we can continue this partnership,” she said.
Donna Wellington, the bank’s Managing Director for its Barbados and OECS operations commended the entities for their work and dedication. “The bank is pleased and indeed feels compelled to support initiatives which, between them, seek to care for the well-being and develop the potential of a variety of Barbadians. We wish them continued success.”
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