The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society (ABRCS) hosted its annual President’s Wellness Day – Give-A-Hand Initiative on December 23, 2024. Typically held as two separate events, this year the ABRCS chose to merge the President’s Wellness Day and the Give-A-Hand Initiative, with a focused emphasis on supporting vulnerable populations.

The initiative aimed to provide direct care to individuals in need, extending assistance not only to those in making up the indigent communities but also to residents of the His Majesty’s Prison and the Fiennes Institute. The ABRCS distributed a variety of essential items, including hygiene products and toiletries, reusable bowls, spoons, and water bottles, non-perishable food, clothing, and other personal care items to enhance the recipients’ quality of life. Meals and over 100 mosquito nets were also distributed to HMP and Fiennes Institute, as part of the ABRCS’s vector control program.

The event was spearheaded by the ABRCS Secretariat and the newly installed Youth Commission, and was supported by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Dr Jose Humphreys, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society, expressed his satisfaction with the success of this year’s initiative.

“The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society is deeply committed to fulfilling its humanitarian mandate by providing essential support to those in need, regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. In times of crisis, whether due to natural disasters, health emergencies, or social challenges, our role is clear: to serve as a beacon of hope and assistance to the most vulnerable in our society. By living our core values of impartiality, neutrality, and humanity, we ensure that we reach those who require help the most, reinforcing our collective responsibility to foster a more compassionate and resilient nation,” Dr Humphreys said.