St. John’s, Antigua. 26th February, 2024. Staff members of CIBC Caribbean turned out in their numbers on Saturday to support their Adopt-a-Cause project for the Antigua and Barbuda Sickle Cell Association.
CIBC staffers, students of the American University of Antigua and members of the Sickle Cell Association joined forces to plant trees and plants on the land that houses the association’s building at the Holberton Hospital.
CIBC & AUA volunteers planting trees.
President of the Sickle Cell Association, Dr. Edda Hadeed, was clearly overwhelmed at the support. She thanked everyone for coming out and participating.
“Last year we were lucky enough to be selected for CIBC Caribbean’s Adopt-a-Cause programme, where CIBC not only provides funding but also encourages volunteers and hands-on help. Our building here was in dire need of various repairs, which got done thanks to CIBC, and today they along with some AUA students have participated in our plant a tree day,” she said.
Dr. Hadeed explained the importance of the building which was repaired.
“This building is used as a Sheltered Workshop for sickle cell patients. It’s a place dedicated to those who cannot maintain work due to their condition. Here patients learn and practice new skills at their own pace – sewing, embroidery, mosaic and tie-dye.”
The bank’s country head, Ladesa James-Williams who participated and proudly planted a mango tree said that Adopt a Cause is not just about giving money.
Country Head, Ladesa James-Willimas planting a mango tree.
“When we say we care about our community, we really care. A major part of the programme is to get staff involved doing hands-on work. I am so proud that so many of our staff volunteers are here today to demonstrate that we are also prepared to physically do the hard work to support these projects.”
The bank donated US$4,000 to the project but while touring the facility Mrs. James-Willimas realized that the building urgently needed a facelift and agreed on the spot to sponsor the paint to facilitate the building being repainted.
Amanda Trotter who spearheaded this Adopt-a-Cause project on behalf of the bank also extended thanks to Antigua Plumbing and Hardware, Linges, Ministry of the Environment and Dynamic L & L, for their donations and support.
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a blood disorder which causes red cells to become distorted, brittle and sticky, which results in severe anaemia and blockages of small blood vessels. Patients experience severe, often unbearable pain, organ damage and a myriad of possible complications.
