CIBC FirstCaribbean donates to Verdun and Marina Houses

Covid-19 has created challenges for people worldwide and even more so for persons battling substance abuse.

Clients of both Verdun and Marina Houses, the two locations managed by the Substance Abuse Foundation of Barbados (SAF), were affected by the lockdown due to the pandemic, as relatives could not visit bringing vital personal care items.

In addition, donations to the foundation also shrank significantly as many of the corporate and individual donors too, are experiencing hard times.

The SAF was particularly tested during this time as well with the need for sanitizing and additional hand washing. This was made even more challenging because of water outages in St. John and the fact that alcohol-based sanitizers are not used at the drug and alcohol treatment facilities as it could have an adverse effect on some clients.

The SAF reached out to CIBC FirstCaribbean, a regular donor, for some assistance. It took some creative shopping, avoiding all alcohol-based products, but finally the SAF was able to purchase the much-needed supplies.

Toothbrushes and alcohol-free toothpaste, disinfectant spray, bleach, wipes, soap, shampoo and conditioner, hand cream, razors, sanitary napkins and paper towels were all on the list of required items.

The bank donated a total of $10,000 to buy the required personal care products and toiletries for the clients as well as supplies which were desperately needed to keep the facilities clean and sanitized during this Covid period.

When Michelle Whitelaw, Director Retail Banking Channels visited Verdun House to make the presentation, she was warmly greeted by staff and clients. She said she was happy to know that the bank was instrumental in changing lives and stated that it brought her much joy being out in the community giving back.

One client while thanking the bank for the generous donation also explained how being at Verdun House had turned him around and gave him his life back because he had lost everything as a result of his addiction.

He further added that at Verdun, he has learnt to change his thinking and to love himself and by so doing he has been able to get his family back and has found peace and acceptance.  He explained that he can now deal with life better and can stand on his own feet.

Since coming to Verdun ten months ago, he has learnt to pray and to meditate and also attends AA meetings. He expressed deep appreciation to CIBC FirstCaribbean and all those who help the SAF because he has seen how it has been a lifesaver for people like him.
Alison Gotip, Director of Clinical Services at the Substance Abuse Foundation expressed appreciation to the bank for the donation and explained that the simple gesture can help to change lives.