PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten has been assisting the 30 plus residents still remaining in the shelter with their transition to their own living accommodations. “Giving Trees” also known as “Angel Trees” have been placed at the entrances of Ace Home Center and Kooyman. On the trees are home-made ornaments (most of which were made by the kids in the shelter themselves). On the back of theornament either has pictures or descriptions of various items needed to begin the new year, in a new home, with a new start. Dishes, sheets, pillows, cooking ware, lights, fixtures, microwaves, stoves, etc. are some of the items and there are items for every budget. One simply chooses an ornament off the tree and when cashing out at Ace or Kooyman presents it and pays for it. Then close to Christmas, Rotarians will deliver all of the items to be
presented to the residents which should really make for a joyous occasion.
While the number of residents in the shelter initiated by then Minister of VSA Emil Lee andlmanaged by the Dr. J Foundation since Hurricanes Irma and Maria has been going steadily down as the foundation and the caretakers have been working tirelessly helping them find suitable accommodations, it really brought to the forefront a serious issue on St. Maarten of the lack of affordable and available housing on the island. “These people literally lost everything in the hurricanes and really have nothing to start their new life with. We can all help spread a little Christmas cheer by helping them get the needed household items to get a fresh start and restore a bit of normalcy,” said Sherrylle Horsford the Rotary Club President. “Its such an easy way to help someone in dire need and brings forth the spirit of Christmas; giving and helping others,” the Rotary President continued to say.
The Giving Trees will be displayed at Kooyman and Ace until all of the ornaments have been gifted and the items will be presented right before Christmas. Rotarians are also collecting unused or overrun tiles, building materials, paint, or other building materials to help some of these residents make needed repairs to the homes they are to move into. If you have extra materials or would like some more information about the relocation
program for the shelter residents, or how you can help, please contact Rotarian John Caputo at 543-7374 or email jcdominos@gmail.com .
