Now in its sixth year, the Sandals Foundation has released Making A Difference, its 2013–2014 Annual Report that showcases its philanthropic efforts across the Caribbean.
Founded on 18 March 2009, the Sandals Foundation undertakes sustainable projects in three areas: Education, Community and Environment. It gives back to communities in Jamaica, the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos Islands, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbados. Its inception was the culmination of three decades of giving back on the part of the Sandals Resorts International.
“Celebrating five years was a big milestone for us,” noted Heidi Clarke, Director of Programmes for the Sandals Foundation. “We took a step back and looked at what we were able to accomplish in that time with support from our guests at Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple Resorts, travel agents, volunteers and our team members, and we were humbled by the dedication they showed.
“Thanks to our supporters, past present and future, we have made a difference and we will continue to make a positive and at times, life-changing impact on the lives of the people who live in the communities we serve,” she continued.
Highlights include statistics such as support for 55 schools in the Caribbean, the awarding of 136 scholarships, training for 946 teachers, the construction of 63 computer labs and healthcare over 155,000 people.
The report also speaks to the Foundation’s launch of an early childhood education initiative, Project Sprout, its partnership with organisations such the SickKids Foundation, Hands Across The Sea, and the Providing Access to Continued Education Programme (P.A.C.E.), and its environmental efforts such as Marine Awareness Month and the preservation of the Grenada Dove.
