THA urges public support for hurricane-hit Caribbean

The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) is urging the

public to support its efforts to provide aid to Caribbean islands impacted by Hurricane Irma by donating emergency relief supplies, including non-perishable food items, clothing and financial aid.

“Being disaster ready should mean not only that we are ready to respond when we face an emergency, but that we can also step forward to assist our neighbours in their time of need,” said Chief Secretary Kelvin Charles.

“So, we encourage residents to donate what they can, as early as possible, and drop them in to our centres so they can be delivered to those who have been so harshly affected by the passing of Hurricane Irma.”

A release from the THA said the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) will be open daily from 9 am to 5 pm to collect donations. Supplies can be dropped off at TEMA’s headquarters at Fairfield Complex in Scarborough, or at TEMA’s warehouse at Signal Hill next to the Army camp.

The THA advises that persons can also show their support by donating to the Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society disaster relief fund account at Republic Bank, Account Number 180482517101.

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), is coordinating regional support for those affected by Hurricane Irma. Bmobile has also set up a text-to-donate facility for its customers who

want to assist the relief effort for islands devastated by the passage of Hurricane Irma. In a partnership with United Way Trinidad & Tobago (UWTT), using the text-to-donate facility, all a bmobile customer has to do is text the word “help” to 6683 and $5 will be automatically deducted from his/her account.

UWTT CEO Jennifer Sancho explained how your contribution will help in the relief effort:

“We know that non-government organisations (NGOs) are already dealing with drives to collect basics such as food, water, clothing and medicine. We are looking at helping to rebuild communities - as well as the immediate post-storm needs. This is going to be a complex and long-term initiative. We’ll identify suitable partners on the ground in the islands who need the most help, and work with them.

TSTT’s Vice President Marketing, Camille Campbell, explained how

the text-to-donate initiative would work:

“All contributions will go into a virtual account and, when UWTT closes off the campaign, TSTT will issue one cheque for the entire amount collected. United Way and TSTT will also inform contributors how much was collected, how it will be used, and which organisations would receive it.”

She said donors would receive an automated text message confirming receipt of their contribution. Individuals can also donate as many times as they want.

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