RC community called to assist Vincentian evacuees

DOMINICA

In response to the current situation in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), the Diocese of Roseau has proposed various ways to help.

A release from the Bishop Arnold Boghaert Catholic Centre, dated April 14, outlined that Caritas Dominica is liaising with Caritas Antilles, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and other humanitarian actors in Dominica, to respond to the needs of the people of SVG. Currently, the Caritas Youth Emergency Action Committees (YEAC) are assisting with the national hotlines.

The release mentioned that a special collection will be taken in all parishes of the Diocese on the weekend of April 24 and 25 and May 1 and 2 to be sent to the Diocese of Kingstown to assist with the humanitarian needs of brothers and sisters in SVG.

“Cash donations may also be brought to the Chancery Office at the Catholic Centre in Roseau,” the release said.

The statement mentioned that the Government of Dominica is prepared to welcome 300 evacuees to its shores.

“During their stay with us, I encourage the clergy, religious and Catholic faithful to make them feel welcome and assist in any way you can to meet their pastoral and spiritual needs.”

Parishioners were encouraged to donate non-perishable goods and supplies based on a needs list submitted by the Diocese of Kingstown. The list includes canned food, personal hygiene products, other food items and non-food items, first aid supplies, and diapers, wipes, crayons, colouring books etc for children and kids.

The release stated that donations can be taken to the parish offices around the Diocese from now until April 25. The parish will organise to transport the items to its Diocesan Storage Facility for shipment to the Diocese of Kingstown.