Local groups mobilising relief for SVG

THE Supermarket Association (SATT) has offered assistance to St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) as people there evacuate in the wake of the eruption of the La Soufriere volcano.

Its president Rajiv Diptee said SATT stands ready to assist with humanitarian efforts where supplies and food are concerned, as well as raising funds for immediate disaster relief efforts.

“The great distress of this humanitarian crisis brought about the cataclysmic eruption of La Soufriere is terribly distressing to the Caricom community.

“Through our machinery with other NGOs, discussions are already taking place with regard to the logistics of such efforts. We are prepared to continue to commit to our charter of humanitarian efforts as we continue to work together to bring relief.

Other organisations, groups and individuals have also sprung into action in mobilising aid to send to SVG.

Is There Not A Cause (ITNAC) said via its Twitter feed that it has already sent a shipment of relief which included water, non-perishable food items, batteries, torchlights, baby supplies, medical supplies, gloves and masks.

Femintt Caribbean is also seeking clothing and toiletries to assist those affected.

The Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) told Newsday it was ready and willing to respond but was cognisant that making the wrong move at the wrong time could derail the intentions of goodwill.

As a result, it said, " The TTMA needs to ensure all logistics are in place for engaging this process. In times like these, as we have done in the past, TTMA would be mobilising our members and stakeholders, who have already made commitments to assist and send items as a means of relief.

“However, there are some logistical issues that need to be addressed before we can ship items to SVG. These included who would be receiving the goods, are the ports open, are the ports of entry clear from the disaster area, who would be the consignee, what are the real needs at this time, and would goods be allowed to enter duty free and if so, would conditions under article 164 would be waived?”

TTMA added that it was also partnering with other associations in the region via the Caribbean Manufacturers Association to provide a collective effort to expediate proceedings.

“This will also ensure efficiencies in an attempt to alleviate redundancies with respect to sending items to SVG. As evidenced, there are checks and balances to be met while working expeditiously to get the goods to SVG in a timely manner.”

How you can help:

SATT: contact Maria Mohammed-Maharaj at 678-4447.

ITNAC: Items can be dropped off at ITNAC's relief points at Fred’s Marketing in Tunapuna, Global Revival Centre in Arima, Boss Electronics in Cunupia, Marcon Construction in Maraval. Compassion Outreach Ministries in San Fernando, Synergy TV in Woodbrook, Jesus Makes a Difference Supermarket in Tobago and ITNAC in St James.

Donations can also be made at First Citizens’ Bank – account number 1660410 and Republic Bank – 510009446803.

Femintt Caribbean: contact 735-9828.