WAND promises more in 2020

The Women in Action for the Needy and Destitute (WAND) celebrated 21 years of service at its annual Christmas charity fundraising luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad on November 8.

President of WAND, Wendy Voss, said without an office space or staff members, the organisation has been able to raise funds to help a number of communities throughout TT. She said when selecting a project, the group’s criteria is sustainability to generate positive returns to enhance the community not just children but citizens of all ages.

Sharon Rowley, wife of the Prime Minister was present along with other guests from the the diplomatic corps and business sector. Voss, in brief remarks, thanked her guests, donors and sponsors for their continued support of WAND.

She encouraged more women to join the movement of assisting those less fortunate and pledged the organisation would continue to grow and render assistance when possible.

She extended special thanks to WAND’s longstanding supporters Xtra Foods Ltd, LJ Williams Ltd, Optometrists Today and to the 24 organisations and patrons for their gifts and support, and without whom the event and WAND’s work could not be possible.

This year WAND focused on projects such as the Beausejour Community Centre, Morvant/Laventille Technical-Vocational programme and, Right Tunes programme.

The organisation was also able to establish the Servol Early Care Centre along with police youth clubs and Associates of the Radiology Centre.

Voss continued to explain that WAND’s mission continues to be in support of those communities, whose needs cannot or are not fully met by the existing support systems. She said WAND remains focused on strengthening youth skills and education programmes, providing for the elderly and individuals in need of special care.

The event’s festivities then kicked off with a locally inspired Christmas lunch prepared by Hyatt regency chefs, live entertainment and the presentation of more than eighteen door and draw prizes.

Since its inception WAND established a La Brea Vision of Hope Development centre, Couva Children’s Home and Crisis Nursery Cora Estate Home for the Elderly and Women’s Transition Home, a Beetham All in One Child Development Centre and a drug and rehabilitation centre for women. Voss promises the organisation will assist more communities in 2020.