Jamaica Gleaner

Xaymaca Internatio­nal surpasses St Vincent relief target with corporate support

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XAYMACA INTERNATIO­NAL’S initiative to support Vincentian­s impacted by the volcanic eruptions of La Soufrière has surpassed its initial target.

Andrew Bellamy, CEO of Xaymaca Internatio­nal, said the effort received strong support from corporate Jamaica. “Just a week after announcing our intention to assist our Caribbean friends, we are grateful to have the support of Trade Winds Citrus Limited, Paramount Chemicals, Somi Distributo­rs and DHL, who have provided supplies valued [at] over $1.5 million,” said Bellamy.

Efforts are now being made to help even more Vincentian­s. “We have already surpassed our target of supplies with their contributi­on, but we have expanded our resources to be able to send more items to those in need,” said the Xaymaca head.

LAUDED THEIR EFFORTS

Marketing Manager of Trade Winds Citrus Limited Lauren Mahfood lauded the relief effort of Xaymaca Internatio­nal. “Xaymaca and Tru-Juice are brands that the Caribbean community has embraced, and we are thankful for the opportunit­y to support the people of St Vincent i n this crisis,” said Mahfood, as she extended hope for a quick recovery for Vincentian­s.

As the needs of those housed in shelters in St Vincent continue to grow, Xaymaca Director Kandi King noted the support received from individual­s who donated to the cause. “It is heart-warming to see our masquerade­rs and persons who support our events come out in support of our Caribbean brothers and sisters. It shows that amid a pandemic where many of us haven’t had the opportunit­y to share physical space, our movement is not just about ‘partying’. We are a carnival community that empathises with our people who are facing an adverse environmen­tal crisis,” said King.

With one week to go before the items are shipped to St Vincent, individual­s who can donate may still do so at the Xaymaca Internatio­nal Band House, 13 Lindsay Crescent, or call (876) 454-7857 for more informatio­n.

 ?? AP ?? Plumes of ash rise from the La Soufrière volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent on Friday, April 16.
AP Plumes of ash rise from the La Soufrière volcano on the eastern Caribbean island of St Vincent on Friday, April 16.
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BELLAMY

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