Sagicor has committed USD$20,000 to regional airline LIAT to assist in its ongoing relief and evacuation efforts for Dominica in the wake of Hurricane Maria.
Donald Austin, Chief Executive Office of Sagicor Life (Eastern Caribbean) Inc, shared his sentiments on the need for assistance, stating:
“This is a trying time for many countries across the region and I encourage everyone to contribute in their own way. We have chosen, among other initiatives, to work with LIAT as the regional carrier is positioned to bring life-saving supplies and hope to Caribbean citizens affected by the recent severe weather. As an insurance company serving customers in over 15 Caribbean countries, Sagicor is prepared to assist in any way we can.”
Interim Chief Commercial Officer of LIAT, Audra Walker, was grateful to Sagicor for taking the initiative of partnering with the airline in this venture. “The positive response of Sagicor to the Care Lift programme is welcomed, especially in these trying times across the region. Many of those affected by this devastating hurricane would not be able to access the essential needs and services without these flights to their destinations.”
The donation will assist LIAT’s goal of helping those that remain on island, as well as air lifting affected persons from Dominica. To date, LIAT has been able to mobilise flights, taking a number of persons including small children, the sick, and elderly out of Dominica. LIAT has also flown in a large quantity of relief supplies from donors and relief agencies.
In addition to the cash donation, staff from across the Sagicor Group of Companies have donated food, personal items, tarpaulins and water, which have been couriered to Dominica by sea. The company’s Dominica drive has also been bolstered by staff pledging contributions from their salaries to further assist those in need. (PR)
