PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, December 18th, four NGOs on St. Maarten received small grants, up to Naf. 5,000, for special social projects within their organization.
These NGOs are: COCAAE Drums, No Kidding with our Kids Foundation, SAFE and the Turning Point Foundation. All four organizations expressed their gratitude as they consider these small grants a great way to improve the programs for their target groups.
Urmay Dormoy, the inspiring person for COCCAE, called it an honor and pleasure to receive funds from Samenwerkende Fondsen (Cooperating Foundations) as it gives his drum group the 'outlet' to do the job with his kids.
Merlyn Schaminee, the driving force behind No Kidding with our Kids Foundation, expressed similar thoughts explaining that they now can replace the stove and fridge, which literally have broken apart. With this new equipment they will be able to offer 90 children warm lunches in their afternoon-school program in Sucker Garden.
The recently established foundation SAFE was represented by Nadjeska Gumbs, who shared that this grant was really welcome as the rather newly established organization which focuses on the LGBT community will now be able to carry out an initial assessment in order to determine where St. Maarten stands related to LGTB issues and how further programs need to be developed.
Last but not least, Vernon Illidge, Executive Director of the Turning Point Foundation, called it a privilege to get support from Samenwerkende Fondsen. With the purchase of two new computers and educational software, they will be able to offer educational programs for their clients, who often have dropped out of school. Part of the rehabilitation program for their clients is to give them new educational opportunities.
Samenwerkende Fondsen was able to give out funds to 14 St. Maarten social organizations for 2014 and is looking forward to continue to serve and support the local community. The Advisory Council and Project Advisor congratulate all NGOs and their boards, staff, supporters and volunteers for an excellent job.
They fully endorse the recent 'quote' of the Acting Governor, that "St. Maarten would be a sad island, if we do not have volunteers". The same applies for all these NGOs who have people with extra needs at heart and show deep commitment, often beyond job duties, for their people and island.
By Jose Sommers, Project Advisor Samenwerkende Fondsen
