Oct. 16, 2004 – International Capital & Management Co., private merchant bankers located in St. Thomas, have donated numerous boxes of clothing to the local Haiti relief effort.
"The island of Haiti has suffered tremendously from the devastation of Hurricane Jeanne; we felt it was important to participate in our community's overall effort," Cornel Williams, chief financial officer for the company, said in a press release.
The effort was coordinated through The Catholic Charities, a non-profit organization that assists the homeless with shelter, clothing and food. It partnered with the Rotary Club International and the business community to contribute clothing and non-perishables to the island of Haiti.
More than 100 tons of food alone has been airlifted to Haiti. National organizations such as the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and local church groups have donated household items, clothing and water.
Michael Akin, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Virgin Islands, estimates four-six trailerloads of goods will have been shipped to Haiti by early November. Several local companies including International Capital & Management Company have made contributions, the release said.
"We are committed to helping our community which sometimes extends to our neighboring islands," Akin said. "However, as we look to the future, Catholic Charities will focus on the needs of the Virgin Islands."
"Our company believes in partnering with the community," Richard Stephenson, chairman of ICMC, said. "We want to extend a helping hand and be good corporate neighbors in any way possible."
As many as 1,500 people were killed in Haiti after Tropical Storm Jeanne hit the island nation in September, dumping heavy rains that caused deadly flooding and mud slides. The Haitian National Red Cross Society is working with Red Cross societies around the world, as well as other humanitarian agencies, to mobilize the delivery of food and relief items to devastated residents. Monetary contributions are being accepted through the month of October. For more information, contact Akin at 777-8518.
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