Rubis distributes Christmas hampers for 10th year

Fuel supplier Rubis this week demonstrated corporate social responsibility with the distribution of Christmas hampers in communities on the Leeward side of St Vincent.

Annelle Hoyte receiving her gift hamper

“Christmas is most truly Christmas when it is commemorated by giving a hope of love to those in need. At Rubis, we are honoured to continue our tradition of bringing smiles to the faces of the residents in our communities, particularly the elderly and heads of households who are unable to adequately provide for their families especially in this season of goodwill,” said Elroy Edwards, Rubis country manager.

Edwards said this year’s donation marks Rubis’s 10th year of sharing the joy of the season.

“Do good when you can, no matter how little, especially if you’re in the position to help those in need” he added.

The recipients of the hampers were identified with the assistance of the government’s Social Welfare Department.

The distribution took place at River View, Fitz Hughes, Chateaubelair, Barrouallie, Layou, Buccament, Dubois, Penniston and Vermont.

The hampers were filled with essential food items, festive treats, and small gifts, aiming to brighten the holiday season for families and convey a sense of solidarity and care from Rubis to the wider community.

Olva “PATO” Richardson, a former lead vocalist of the band “Resurrection”

Sharon Prince of Chateaubelair, a recipient of the Christmas hamper, expressed her gratitude, saying “Rubis has not only started my Christmas but made it brighter. It is not just about the gifts; it’s knowing that Rubis cares.”

Seventy-three-year-old Ronald Kirby of Walliabou, highlighted “it is lovely to be one of those receiving this hamper. Although I’m blind I often hear about it on the radio and have looked forward to this gift. I feel loved.”

Susan Lewis expressed her gratitude on behalf of her 95-year-old grandmother Linda Lewis, the oldest person in Petit Bordel. “We appreciate Rubis for remembering her and giving her this hamper ,it means more than a lot. We are very grateful.”

“This partnership has strengthened our belief in the power of collective care and creates a lasting bond. Last year l had the opportunity of meeting the oldest man in Barrouallie, this year I met the oldest person in Petit Bordel,” Edwards explained.

Nigel Quashie with glee said, “thank you for making this old man very happy.”

Annele Hoyte says she’ll have a very special Christmas as Rubis brought Santa to her doorstep.

Olva “Pato” Richardson, a 67-year-old of Kearton’s Hill, Barrouallie, a former lead vocalist of the band “Resurrection” was shocked at the visit saying “Rubis does surprise people!” and a teary eyed

Cecily Ceasar ,78 of Petit Bordel amidst sobs said “ Words cannot express the joy you have brought to me because I really needed this. God bless and keep Rubis for thinking of me.”

Carlos James, the constituency representative for North Leeward commended Rubis on the donations.

“We are happy that Rubis is able to put a smile on so many faces this holiday season. They have truly lived up to their corporate social responsibility in providing support to so many communities following the resulting challenges of a global health pandemic and the explosive eruption of the La Soufrière volcano.

“Their contribution has added value to the government’s social protection measures and will go a long way in supporting vulnerable communities across the country.”

Edwards thanked the other members of the Rubis team for their meticulous planning and execution to ensure a successful distribution.