Vincentian tennis coach in Oman gives back to SVG

A Vincentian tennis coach and philanthropist living in Oman has raised $10,000 in donations for the Enhams Clinic and the Zero Hunger Trust Fund.

Deron Grant, who is the director of tennis operations and sporting affairs at the largest sporting and recreational facility in Oman, has donated an air conditioner, refrigerator, three standing fans and medical supplies valued at over $6,000 to the clinic where he as born.{{more}}

Speaking at a handing over ceremony at the Enhams Clinic on Tuesday, Parliamentary Representative for East St George Camillo Gonsalves noted that Grant had made the donation selflessly.

“Deron is very committed to Enhams Clinic,” said Gonsalves, adding that Grant has been aggressive about repairs that needed to be done to the building, and has been following up on issues related to the clinic.

The area representative also noted that the donations would make the patients more comfortable, the delivery of health services more efficient and comprehensive and would uplift the community.

Grant also donated $4,000 to the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, an initiative by the Government to ensure that by 2020, no Vincentian would go to bed hungry.

According to Gonsalves, Grant was moved by the mission and persuaded his international colleagues in Oman to make contributions to the Trust Fund, although they have never visited St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Minister also stated that he thinks that Grant’s dedication could be a template for Vincentians in the diaspora.

Grant also separately donated a cheque for $5,000 to assist a sick member of the Church of Christ of which his aunt is a member.

Speaking at the ceremony, Grant’s aunt Deno Ballantyne disclosed that her nephew quickly consented to help the man, who is suffering from a heart condition and hernia, and needs urgent surgery to correct his condition.

Mark Charles, a member of the church, said the donation would go a long way in facilitating the church member’s operation and added that he hopes and prays that other persons in the diaspora would see the need to help persons in need here in SVG.

Grant has also indicated his interest in fixing the tennis courts located at New Montrose.

The Sultanate of Oman is an Arab country in the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia, Yemen and the United Arab Emirates. (AS)