The Sandals Foundation in collaboration with Unique Vacations UK and other agencies is hoping to raise US$100,000 through its Island Challenge in October to support paediatric healthcare at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and provide healthcare assistance to communities in the southern Grenadine affected by Hurricane Beryl.
“The Island Challenge is not just a physical test; it is a mission to bring hope and healing to some of the most vulnerable communities in the Caribbean,” Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, said in a press release.
Over four days, the participants will take on a 50-mile challenge across St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which includes a half marathon around Bequia, a series of long-distance runs, sea kayaking, and a challenging hike up La Soufriere volcano.
“We were absolutely over the moon with the success of the inaugural Sandals Foundation Island Run – Antigua 2023,” Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, Heidi Clarke said.
She said that the dedication and support from the runners were unmatched and the effort that the team put into the event, from the planning stages right through to the 100-kilometre run itself, was “simply incredible”.
“This year, we are determined to inspire more hope. The funds raised will go directly to providing essential medical equipment for infants. I can’t wait to see what the team achieves in St. Vincent and the Grenadines this year and what crazy challenges they come up with next!” Clarke said.
Meanwhile, Managing Director of Unique Vacations UK, Karl Thompson said the decision was made to host the Island Challenge in SVG “to continue the great work we did in 2023 to raise funds for essential medical equipment for paediatric facilities in the Caribbean.
“Sandals Resorts recently opened a new resort in St. Vincent, and it’s always been part of the brand’s ethos to immerse itself and support the local communities. Following the passing of Hurricane Beryl, we also wanted a portion of the money raised to provide healthcare assistance in the Southern Grenadine islands,” Thompson said.
And, Resort Manager at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tamon Allen said it is an honour to host the Island Challenge “knowing that every mile we run, every stroke we paddle, and every step we take brings us closer to a brighter future for the children and families of St. Vincent and the Grenadines”.
He said that the event is not just about raising funds but is also about “uniting the community for a cause that touches us all.
“The support from our local partners, the dedication of our team, and the spirit of the participants show that when we come together, we can achieve something truly remarkable. We are excited to see the positive change this challenge will bring to our healthcare facilities and the lives of so many.”
The goal is to exceed last year’s USD$100,000 fundraising mark.
SVG’s Minister of Health, St. Clair “Jimmy” Prince said the Island Challenge is a remarkable event,
“… but what truly excites me is the opportunity for wider community involvement through the Family Fun Day on October 13th.”
Prince said the day is more than just coming together.
‘It’s about engaging with our community in a meaningful way. It’s a chance for families to connect, support one another, and contribute to a cause that will benefit our children and future generations,” the health minister said.
“The compassion I see in our community is truly inspiring, and I believe that by uniting, we can ignite lasting change. Change that will help our youngest and most vulnerable, giving infants a healthier start at life,” he said.
The Sandals Foundation is inviting everyone to join in this cause, whether by choosing to participate in the family fun day, donating, or simply spreading the word.
“Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most,” the foundation said.
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