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)