Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey is urging the business community to give back to the vulnerable and less fortunate in society.
He made the appeal as he accepted the donation of a “significant” number of $100 vouchers redeemable at Popular Discounts Supermarket, from the Eric Hassell Group of Companies, on behalf of residents of the St Michael South constituency which he represents.
Humphrey, who expressed gratitude to the local business for the generous donation during the brief presentation ceremony at his Brittons Hill, St Michael constituency office, said 2022 had been a challenging year for Barbadians.
“I would use this opportunity, though, to encourage other companies to give back. I think people will be willing to give back when they see that you are actually using those resources to help people directly,” he said, noting that his constituency had also been making contributions throughout the year.
“We have been doing that, and I think we made it our history, our brand…. I am asking more companies to give over the course of the year. Follow this example and just try to help people however they can, in different ways. I am also asking individuals to help other individuals. We can do more. If you can give a little something, give a little something.”
Humphrey disclosed that his constituency office had sent out letters to businesses and approached a number of companies asking for donations and other types of support.
“And, if I am being truthful, I would think that my requests for support in St Michael South are always relatively high and we try to meet that demand and this year has really been hard.
“I could not be more pleased with the contribution that I am receiving from the Eric Hassell Group of Companies. This would allow us to help a significant number of persons in St Michael South,” the MP said.
Humphrey said his constituency, which has no real middle class, is home to more than 7 000 residents and this year, the constituency office was distributing hampers and vouchers in addition to hosting a major road tennis tournament, the finals of which would be held on Boxing Day.
Managing Director of Eric Hassell Group of Companies Erica Luke said given the current economic climate, the company was pleased to be able to give back to the community.
She said it was part of the group of companies’ legacy to exercise its corporate social responsibility.
“And so, we are very pleased to be able to do this today because we know what the hardships are like right now for many,” Luke said.
Marketing and Business Development Manager Lisa Rudder explained that the company participates in community give-back initiatives throughout the year and it chose to make a donation to the St Michael South constituency at this time.
“We want to wish everybody a Merry Christmas on behalf of the Eric Hassell Group of Companies and we just hope that our contribution would really help with the community efforts that you have in place for Christmas 2022,” she said. (AH)
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