NASSAU, BAHAMAS— Two Grand Bahama-based entities received monetary donations from HG Christie this month as it continues to show its renewed commitment to the island's communities.
Grand Bahama Humane Society received funding to assist with caring for the many animals at its shelter, while The Beacon School received financial support for the school's Jr. Junkanoo preparation.
HG Christie President and Managing Broker John Christie said the donations express the company's dedication to developing organizations that better the lives of Bahamians, regardless of which island they call home.
"For HG Christie, supporting organizations that positively impact communities is very important," Christie said. "With offices on New Providence, Grand Bahama, and several Family Islands, we always see it as crucial to ensure these communities have the financial support they need to carry out the great work that they do. The Beacon School continues to educate and provide the necessary support for students with special needs, who can sometimes be overlooked. We admire the work that the school does and found it necessary to support their expression of culture through Jr. Junkanoo."
"Grand Bahama Humane Society continues to play a major role in the community of Freeport, Grand Bahama. There is no value that you can place on what they provide to that island. So, supporting the organization is always a no-brainer."
Beacon School teacher and Junkanoo Coordinator Sheiana Forbes said that one of the school's main goals is to teach students the necessary life skills to be able to independently function as much as possible in the world, ensuring they are able to be a part of and enjoy Bahamian culture is as important.
"The students love junkanoo," Forbes explained as she described the school's gratitude for HG Christie's $1,000 donation. "All year they are constantly asking when they will start preparing for the next parade. Our entire staff, including administration, teachers, aides, and support staff are all very involved in planning and preparation. We also have some parents, members of senior junkanoo groups and the community that lend a helping hand, whether financial or stepping in to assist with preparations. We appreciate everyone who helped along this journey, especially HG Christie, and we welcome anyone who wishes to assist in the future. We cannot wait for the next parade."
This is the second consecutive year HG Christie has made the Jr. Junkanoo donation to the Beacon School, Grand Bahama's only special needs school with about 120 students.
GB Humane Society Executive Director Elizabeth Burrows said HG Christie's $500 donation will be used to purchase food for the animals they house.
"The Humane Society of Grand Bahama is suffering from the same poor economic conditions as the island, worsened after Dorian and the pandemic," Burrows said. "Those same conditions have caused an increase in the need for our services and shelter, ironically, as we do not have the resources or support to provide the level of service needed. We greatly appreciate the donation from HG Christie as they see our need and what we continue to do for the community and decided to lend a helping hand."
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