Nassau Bahamas, 12 September 2022 – A return to the classroom this school year has not meant a decline in technology reliance. Whether for homework completion, project research or diving further into topics learned, students will require computer access.

 Aware of this, CIBC FirstCaribbean recently paired a $20,000 donation with the distribution of nearly 100 desktop computers to children’s homes, public schools and libraries around the country.

 The bank’s Managing Director, Jacqui Bend said, “From 1stPay to 1stSend to banking transfers, the finance industry has revolutionized with digital banking services. Likewise, classrooms have embraced the power of technology in the academic development of students. However, not all youngsters have the computer access needed to take advantage of its benefits.

 She added, “With this donation, we know that more students will be able to reach their maximum potential in the four walls of the classroom and beyond. Likewise, with the $20,000 donation split between children's homes, caregivers are able to continue creating a positive and safe environment for students to thrive."

 On the receiving end of the large computer donation are Grand Bahama Children's Home, Elizabeth Estates Children's Home, The Nazareth Centre, Children's Emergency Hostel, Bilney Lane Children's Home, Ranfurly Home for Children, Colby Home For Boys, Lend A Hand Bahamas, Mayaguana Public Library, Abraham's Bay Public Library and S.C. McPherson Junior High School.

 For some of the recipients, the computers will mean much-needed computer replacements, the addition of more computers or the establishment of a computer lab. 

 The $20,000 shared between children's homes was donated toward the purchase of back-to-school supplies and other necessities for children in each home's care, as well as toward individual salary obligations for caregivers.

 The computers donated to Grand Bahama Children's Home, which follows a $7,000 donation made by CIBC FirstCaribbean earlier this year, will replace inventory lost during Hurricane Dorian. 

 When presented with the previous donation, Grand Bahama Children’s Home Executive Director, June Hutcheson, stressed that donations from the bank "make all the difference in our world."

 “We simply could not do it without such a generous donor like CIBC FirstCaribbean,” she said.

A $20,000 donation made by CIBC FirstCaribbean will be shared between children's homes around the country. The donation will go toward the purchase of back-to-school supplies and other necessities for children in each home's care, as well as toward their individual salary obligations for caregivers. 

Photo Credit: Ashley Albury, Serena Williams Media and Public Relations