The District Grand Lodge of Barbados and Eastern Caribbean donated COVID-19 supplies to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). Photo: RVIPF

On behalf of the District Grand Lodge of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, under the auspices of the United Grand Lodge of England, which comprises 21 member Lodges in ten (10) countries, spread over the Caribbean Sea from St Thomas, US Virgin Islands (USVI) in the North to Grenada in the South; and in response to the devastating effect that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had on member countries generally, the member lodge here in the Virgin Islands, namely St Ursula’s Lodge, was pleased to reach out to and to make a charitable donation in recognition of the valiant First Responders and Front Line Heroes who have selflessly rendered service in our community.

The District, in responding to feedback from our heroes, presented the Police Welfare Association (PWA) with $1500 USD worth of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

The RVIPF has been involved in the fight against COVID-19 by enforcing the curfew and assisting Customs and Immigration in patrolling the sea borders.

The current Chairman of the PWA, Inspector Dean Robin, was most appreciative of the donation of masks and hand sanitisers for officers who are on the frontline protecting and serving the citizens of the Virgin Islands during this challenging time as the VI and the globe grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the RVIPF and RVIPF’s PWA have no ties or affiliations to any NGOs or non-profit organisations, it welcomes donations and investments which will enhance or improve the quality of service of its officers and/or benefit the citizens of the Virgin Islands.

This ceremony was one of several which are being simultaneously conducted throughout the District. It is anticipated that further charitable initiatives will be forthcoming in the near future.