Coast Guard presents food baskets to Biabou residents

Some residents of Biabou must have thought Santa Claus was in the area on Tuesday afternoon when the St.Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard gave away up to 40 food baskets.{{more}}

Chief Petit Officer Vinton John in his welcoming remarks disclosed that the programme was in its seventh year and it was the first time the Coast Guard had taken the initiative to decentralize from its base at Calliaqua, which mainly benefited the people of that area.

Acting Lieutenant Commander Brenton Cain delivering an address said he was very pleased to be a part of an exercise that touched the lives of people.

“The Coast Guard is always willing to make a contribution towards the social aspect of our society,” said Caine, who disclosed that the food basket distribution had programme started in 2000.

Cain, who took over the leadership of the Coast Guard this year, said he suggested that the organizers extend the programme “to touch the heart and souls of other people”. He said the same approach will be taken next year to reach two new areas.

He used the opportunity to thank the corporate sponsors who made the exercise possible, especially John West of TMM limited who for the past six years gave 20 food baskets annually.

Leading Seaman Kerwin Ince came in for high praises from his Acting Lieutenant Commander for taking a lead role in making the programme a success. Cain also expressed thanks to the Commissioner of Police Keith Miller for granting permission to use the Biabou Police Station.

The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Lieutenant Deon Henry.

The same team journeyed to Barrouallie on Wednesday where they distributed an additional 40 food baskets to the community.(HN)