On the very rainy Sunday, May 28, the Bingo fraternity came out in support of Bethesda – For Persons with Disabilities’ first fundraising event at Holy Faith Convent, Couva.
Proclaiming that “Rain doh stop Bingo”, the Bingo afficionados appeared as early as 11 a.m. for the event, which kicked off at around 2.30 p.m. It was a lovely afternoon of picong, laughter and good Bingo in the Holy Faith Convent Hall.
New to the Bingo circle, Bethesda benefitted from great advice from patrons throughout the afternoon. Over 125 Bingo supporters attended and participated in 10 fun games facilitated by Johnny Glasgow, son of the late Bingo legend, Arthur Glasgow.
Bingo fans played for over 30 prizes donated by Bethesda’s generous benefactors. Prizes included a 65” television donated by Home Centre Eastern Region Limited; a trip for two to Tobago courtesy Caribbean Airlines Limited with accommodation by Store Bay Holiday Resort; kitchen appliances from Grand Prix Limited; vouchers from Signature Collection, and Sixth Sense Beauty Spot; and a hamper from Happi Products Limited.
For a first attempt, the Bingo was a tremendous success and Bethesda will be making it an annual event.
Bethesda will continue its fundraising activities with a Praise Party on the Seas on Saturday, August 26 at 10 a.m. on The Harbour Master, featuring Fr Robert Christo, Fr Cornelius Phillip, and the Point Fortin Music Ministry. Interested persons may call 328-1781 for tickets which are priced at $300.
About Bethesda
Established in June 2015 as a Catholic Community, Bethesda was formed in response to the desire by Saira Joseph-La Foucade, a mother of a child with disabilities, to provide a sensory-friendly environment where families who would otherwise be excluded could celebrate Holy Mass together with their Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Bethesda serves all PWDs regardless of religion, gender, class etc. in communities across Trinidad and Tobago in keeping with our Vision – Inclusion of all persons with disabilities into community life.
Since its incorporation in 2019, in addition to hosting several activities in support of its families, Bethesda’s Board of Directors embarked upon planning a major project to construct and operate a group facility that will offer dignified accommodation to PWDs, regardless of religion, but portraying a Catholic ethos. The facility will be designed to provide a caring space for persons with moderate to severe disabilities, where they can be supported while enjoying a meaningful life.
While the Board remains committed to its long-term project, the onset of Covid-19 and its impact on economies have affected potential sources of funding. Until the Board can re-engage with its long-term project plan, it has taken the decision to focus on the provision of temporary care (Respite) through daily services and an annual camp in August.