Peter Edmunds, country manager, CIBC FirstCaribbean (L) with staff members Joan Richardson-Liburd, Akeem Martin, and Rosanna Chichester present cheque and gifts to Deidra Massicote, Jernell Jerome, and Judith Charles of the Family Support Network. Photo:supplied

In addition to the cash donation, staff of the Bank, led by the internal, Community Awareness Committee, bought Christmas gifts for the twentyone children aged between 2 – 17 who were registered in the FSN care programme.

“The end of year donations are a reflection of CIBC FirstCaribbean’s top-down stance on the meaning of community spirit,” said Mr Edmunds. “The Bank made similar monetary donations across the region and here in the BVI, our team added its own message of Seasonal goodwill through the giving of gifts to the young and innocent victims of matters beyond their control. The Family Support Network is an exceptionally important and relevant organisation that deals with issues that are unpleasant, tough, and often desperate. We recognise that all of these challenges that may be happening outside our immediate social sphere do affect us all in the long-term and we make our donations in the belief that a supportive community generates a better outcome for all on many levels.”

In October, twentysix women, most with children, came to the FSN within a twentytwo day period. By the end of November, the figure was up to fifty. Due to the commitment of volunteers, fund raising activities undertaken by social clubs, and monetary gifts, the FSN was able to offer temporary shelter, food, clothing, legal assistance and counseling to those that sought it.

“The program has grown from strength to strength in the past 23 years,” said Mrs Charles. “
Since that time many people have been helped. Not just women, but their children and families. Hearts and minds have been changed or at least informed and influenced. FSN has built partnerships over the years and where our limited financial resources cannot stretch, we seek out others to help those who need our services. The success of the FSN is one hundred percent dependent on volunteers and donations and this is an area that we need to keep front of mind of the public.”

Currently, the main people managing the service requests and day-to-day running of the office are Dr. Sylvia Simmonds assisted by Deidra Massicote, Jernell Jerome, and Ann Marie Baltimore.

The FSN needs continuous support from the community to remain effective and the newly established board of directors appeals to members of the public to get involved, whether it be volunteering time, donating non-perishable food items, clothing, office supplies, or making cash contributions or providing professional services such as counseling, financial planning and career guidance. More information on ways to help the FSN can be obtained by calling (284) 494 7622.
The Family Support Network was established in 1989 as a volunteer organisation under the auspices of the BVI Christian Council. It operates today as a non-governmental organization whose primary aim is to aid individuals, couples and families in distress.