Bank supports NGOs

CIBC First Caribbean on Tuesday announced its support for some non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

In a statement, the bank said the NGOs were the Chinapoo Police Youth Club, the Laventille Community Children’s Project and the Caribbean Kids and Families Therapy Organization (CKFTO).

Although schools are closed because of covid19 restrictions, children still need things such as notebooks, pencils and textbooks, the bank said. Also, children with special needs must be assessed before being enrolled for therapy.

The bank said it was pleased to do what it could to ensure the nation's children have a chance at learning opportunities.

The Chinapoo Police Youth Club and the Laventille Community Children’s Project were happy for the assistance. Both groups will use the money to buy physics, maths, English, Spanish, science and social studies textbooks.

CKFTO will use its donation to help low-income families who are desperately juggling the needs of their children with disabilities, with access to therapy services.

Chinapoo Police Youth Club president Eloy Burge said, "A child has a right to an education and I thank FirstCaribbean for their support, as we strive to change the recent state of alienation and disillusion among our youths today.”

Laventille Community Children’s Project assistant secretary Tvynn Lewis said the group is supporting displaced children in the community who are experiencing difficulty because their guardians recently became unemployed because of the covid19 pandemic.

"By the bank’s sponsorship of one student, that’s one less to worry about.”

CKFTO general manager Krista Hammelsmith De Verteuil said the NGO was grateful for the bank's support.

“Marginalised children with special needs are especially vulnerable as a result of shrinking services and schooling."