President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), Carl Dickson has announced the first phase roll out of the COVID-19 relief package to stakeholders in the country.
For the purposes of clarity and transparency, we advise that to date we have received US$1,000,000 — of which US$500,000 is exclusively designated for female football development,” Dickson said in a press release.
He said that the current roll out is specific to the remaining US$500,000, which will see assistance being given to our 56 affiliate entities, comprised primarily of clubs, leagues, referees and match officials.
“As well, we have taken the decision to provide much-needed assistance to our associate leagues and national team players. Total disbursements in this phase amounts to approximately US$400,000 or 80% of available funding.”
The remaining U$$100,000 has been set aside primarily to procure essential equipment, upgrade playing environs and to engage and adhere to health protocols necessary to create a biosafe environment for our future footballing engagements locally, regionally and internationally, Dickson said.
“We note that some stakeholders have referenced a regional member association (M.A.) recently-approved stimulus package as a bench mark expectation.
“We assure you that the circumstances differs significantly, as that association caters to only 29 affiliates, while we are almost double, at 56.
“Of note, we are providing assistance to our national team players (180) all age groups and gender in our package,” Dickson said.
“We hasten to remind you that the second phase of funding (US$500,000) is expected January 2021 to which you will also be the primary beneficiaries as we navigate the current pandemic, we encourage all of our stakeholders to remain safe and to follow the guidelines of our health authorities,” Dickson said.