The main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) announced on Wednesday its commitment to distribute EC$100,000 in bursaries to students affected by Hurricane Beryl, which struck on July 1.
During a press conference in Kingstown, NDP President and Opposition Leader Godwin Friday detailed the party’s response to the disaster, highlighting four key initiatives. He emphasized the party’s ongoing support efforts, stating, “As opposition members in Parliament, we are fulfilling our duty by presenting these four initiatives.”
The first initiative involves providing EC$100,000 in back-to-school bursaries to children directly impacted by the hurricane. “Currently, people are focused on immediate relief such as clothing and food, but in two to three months, parents will need to get their kids back to school,” Friday said. The NDP aims to raise and distribute the bursaries to ensure children can continue their education without disruption.
In addition to the bursaries, the NDP has established a disaster relief center at its headquarters on Murray’s Road to manage the collection and distribution of supplies. Drawing on their effective response during the La Soufriere volcano eruption in April 2021, Friday has tasked General Secretary Brenton Smith, Major St. Clair Leacock, and other experienced members to lead this effort.
The third initiative involves launching a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for rebuilding homes and businesses. “This will be a long-term project,” Friday noted, adding that while the government bears the primary responsibility for disaster relief, the NDP will also play a significant role in meeting the needs of affected communities.
Lastly, the NDP will continue to visit hurricane-hit areas to provide support and advocate for residents. “We started visiting communities on the very day of the hurricane,” Friday said, highlighting the party’s commitment to ongoing engagement and assistance. He assured residents that the NDP would persist in advocating for timely government support and would continue its relief efforts.
“We will ensure that these supplies reach those in need promptly and transparently,” Friday pledged, urging those interested in contributing to send their donations to the NDP headquarters.
