BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – RECOGNISING the need to give back to the community in a meaningful way, the Concerned Taxi Drivers Foundation (CTDF) on Tuesday (Dec. 7) had presented a significant donation to the staff and patients of the JNF General Hospital.
The timely donation was handed over by the Foundation’s President, Winston Duporte, to Operations Manager Launette Adams.
Giving an insight into the formation of the organisation, Duporte explained that it came about after he and a number of taxi operators had attended a colleague’s funeral in Middle Island.
“We were at another taxi driver’s funeral in Middle Island when I suggested that we should come together in a voluntary organisation so as to give back something that we make to the less fortunate,” he said.
He said the idea was quickly adopted by other colleagues who established the foundation in October 2007, noting that membership is voluntary and members make financial contributions in whatever way that they see fit.
At a simple handing over ceremony at the administrative building, Duporte told senior staff members of the hospital that the foundation decided on the initiative because it wants to make a meaningful contribution to the Federation in which they operate.
“We within this foundation have decided to return something from what we earn to the community and not just grab at everything we make. We intend to help somebody as we pass along and not just die leaving millions in the banks when we could have helped someone,” he stressed.
He added, “The Concerned Taxi Drivers Foundation is giving from our hearts today and we intend to continue doing so. Whatever we make, we will give back, for many taxi drivers like me want to give back something before we pass.”
On accepting the donation, Adams expressed gratitude on behalf of the hospital’s administration. She indicated that the hospital would welcome all other organisations, institutions and corporate citizens in St. Kitts and Nevis that wish to emulate the CTDF, noting that the medical institution seeks partnership.
“I would like to thank the Concerned Taxi Drivers Foundation for donating 12 fans and some pillows to the hospital. We want to assure you gentlemen that the donation is greatly appreciated and would be put to good use. We welcome all partners who wish to collaborate with us to ensure the delivery of quality health services to our Federation, Adams”
Duporte said his organisation is looking at the introduction of an educational programme, noting that a number of single parents are experiencing grave difficulties in providing a sound education for their children.
