Business

ANSA McAL Group lauded for transformative support of the One Family Programme

The future is looking much brighter for one vulnerable Barbadian family, and Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Hon. Kirk Humphrey, has lauded the ANSA McAL Group for its outstanding effort in leading that transformation through the One Family Programme.

A project of the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, the One Family Programme focuses on empowering vulnerable households across Barbados and encourages corporate entities to adopt and support vulnerable families in their communities.

“The example set by the ANSA McAL Group and its subsidiaries in rolling up their sleeves to get involved in all aspects of this project and to enrich the life of one vulnerable family is truly how we hope this programme can work,” said Minister Humphrey. He further stated that “the initiative shows how targeted holistic interventions, strategic partnership and support can pave the way for lasting self-sufficiency and empowerment.”

The Minister’s comments followed a comprehensive support and home repair effort by ANSA McAL that has transformed the quality of life for one local family. The effort has provided for their physical needs, as well as training and employment for young family members to begin creating a self-sufficient future. As part of the project, the ANSA McAL Group oversaw critically needed home repairs, including treating termite damage, enclosing walls previously exposed to the elements, and repairing the roof. The home repair, valued at over $30,000, was also made possible with the support of Ace H & B Hardware, which donated many needed materials. In addition to the structural improvements, Berger Paints, one of the ANSA McAL subsidiaries, provided paint, and the local community came together to paint the home for Christmas 2024. With a safe and secure home now provided, the family can focus on their future and the road to empowerment.

In addition to improving their living environment, another subsidiary, ANSA Merchant Bank, paid off a large portion of water bill arrears and negotiated a payment plan for the balance, allowing the family access to running water once again. By covering essential costs, Ansa McAl group has allowed the family to regain stability and focus on opportunities for growth and long-term well-being.

Standard Distributors, another of the Group’s subsidiaries provided a job for one of the family’s young males over Christmas 2024. Another life-changing opportunity was also provided for another young male within the household by offering an internship through Ansa Motors. That young person has since acquired valuable skills to assist with gaining full-time employment. These opportunities will enable them to earn an income, contributing to their financial independence and providing them with the skills and experience needed to support themselves in the future. This approach encourages self-reliance, ensuring that the family won’t be dependent on temporary aid, but instead can move towards sustainable independence.

Rachel Pilgrim, Head of Marketing, explained: “In the true meaning of sustainability, we are working to assist this family in overcoming their past to create a brighter future for themselves – and one they can maintain. We are happy to have worked through the programme to help this family stand on their own by supporting the education and upskilling of its members to make a sustained and meaningful impact. The ANSA McAL Group has a strong footprint across the region, and we are invested in the wellbeing of our people.”

Minister Humphrey, expressed his gratitude: “This is a fantastic example of how Corporate Barbados can step up to change the lives of vulnerable Barbadians. ANSA McAL’s commitment to this family reflects the true spirit of community and empowerment that we aim to foster through the One Family Programme. By equipping them with the skills, mindset, and opportunities they need, the programme is not just alleviating immediate struggles, but also setting the stage for lasting change. I extend my heartfelt thanks to ANSA McAL Group and its employees for their remarkable efforts.”

As the family takes the first steps toward rebuilding their lives, it is clear that this partnership between the private sector and those in need has the potential to create real and lasting change. With continued support, mentorship, and access to education and employment, they are now on a journey to financial stability and empowerment.

In the words of the family’s head of household: “We feel like we have a second chance. This is more than just help; it’s an opportunity to build a future for ourselves and our children. We are forever grateful.”

The Ministry encouraged other corporate entities to follow this example and partner with the government to create lasting positive impacts for vulnerable families across Barbados. (PR)

Business

B’DS PUBLIC WORKERS CREDIT UNION PARTNERS WITH BAY VIEW HOSPITAL

In a bid to make premium healthcare more accessible, the Barbados Public Workers Cooperative Credit Union Limited (BPWCCUL) has partnered with Bayview Hospital to ease the financial burden of medical expenses for Barbadians.

Announcing the initiative during a signing ceremony at BPWCCUL’s headquarters on Thursday, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, Gail Best-Niles, highlighted the growing demand for financial assistance in healthcare.

“What we have found is that more than 50 per cent of our personal loans are being used for medical procedures. Unfortunately, many Barbadians do not have health insurance, and that’s something we intend to address with our members,” she stated.

Despite efforts to educate members on the benefits of health insurance, Best-Niles noted that a significant portion still remain uninsured, making healthcare costs a persistent challenge.

Through this new partnership, BPWCCUL members will receive exclusive discounts on various medical services at Bayview Hospital, including elective surgeries and maternity care.

“Whether it’s an elective surgery or maternity services, Public Workers members can now access world-class treatment at more affordable rates,” Best-Niles explained.

Recognising that even with discounts, medical expenses can still be overwhelming, BPWCCUL will also provide financing options for medical procedures, ensuring that members receive the care they need without undue financial strain.

Business

Heart & Stroke Foundation rehabilitation programme gets a boost from RUBIS

The recovery prognosis for Barbadians affected by stroke has been boosted by a RUBIS donation of BBD $20,500 to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Barbados in support of its stroke rehabilitation programme.

The funds will help ensure that patients receive essential physiotherapy assessments before starting rehabilitation, to receive treatment tailored to their specific needs. RUBIS Brand Marketing Specialist Mellissa Broomes said the contribution falls under the Company’s Corporate Social Responsibility roadmap, which is focused on education and healthcare.

“At RUBIS, we are committed to making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve, and our support for the Heart & Stroke Foundation’s Stroke Rehabilitation Programme reflects our dedication to health and well-being. We are proud to contribute to this vital initiative, helping stroke patients regain strength, independence, and an improved quality of life. As the Foundation marks its 40th anniversary, our team looks forward to volunteering throughout the year and is happy to continue our strong relationship in support of its mission.”

Heart and Stroke Foundation CEO Mrs. Greta Yearwood expressed her thanks to RUBIS, noting that it strengthened a relationship dating back several years. She said the donation was timely and would go a long way towards achieving stroke rehabilitation goals.

“We offer services in rehabilitative therapy for both cardiac and stroke patients, but this donation will specifically assist with the physiotherapy for those patients suffering from stroke. Prior to joining the program, they will be able to see a physiotherapist who will be able to assess them and ensure they are receiving the specific needs for their conditions. We love working with our partners. We also look forward to RUBIS coming on board to assist us as volunteers. This is our 40^th anniversary, and there are many areas the RUBIS team can assist in, including working at our sites, attending events and even at our gym.

The Heart & Stroke Foundation of Barbados (HSFB) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting cardiovascular health and reducing the impact of heart disease and stroke in Barbados. The HSFB raises awareness about risk factors, prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices through education, advocacy, and community programs.

The foundation offers various initiatives, including heart and stroke rehabilitation programs, CPR and first aid training, health screenings, and public awareness campaigns to encourage heart-healthy habits. Additionally, HSFB provides support services for stroke survivors and their families, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.

Committed to building a healthier nation, the HSFB works closely with healthcare professionals, corporate partners, and volunteers to drive impactful change in cardiovascular care and prevention across Barbados. (PR)

Caption:

From left are Mellissa Broomes, RUBIS Brand Marketing Specialist, Greta Yearwood, CEO of Heart & Stroke Foundation of Barbados Inc., and Andrea Gooding, RUBIS Marketing Programs Manager

Business

Business Hub & Business Expo On March 29

Clients of the Barbados Trust Fund Limited (BTFL) will get an opportunity to showcase their products and offer their services this weekend, and members of the public are encouraged to support them.

The BTFL will host a Business Hub this Saturday, March 29, at the Natural Heritage Department Grounds, Sturges, St. Thomas, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Various business support organisations in the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise sector and the Unified Trust Co-operative Society will participate in the hub.

Additionally, a team from the Co-operatives Department will be at the Harvest Market, Nature Garden and Business Expo at the Thomas Parish Church on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. They will share useful information on the co-operative business model, including how the movement can benefit individuals and entrepreneurs.

The Business Hub and Business Expo are part of the St. Thomas We Gatherin’ initiative.