Press Release

USSOUTHCOM and the U.S. Embassy donate goods to the Bahamas National Council for Disability

July 20, 2007

On July 17, the Bahamas National Council for Disability (BNCD) received a joint donation of non-perishable goods and cleaning supplies from the United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) and the U.S. Embassy.  The donation coincided with the official visit to The Bahamas by Admiral James Stavridis, Commander of USSOUTHCOM.  Making the presentation totaling approximately $4,000, were Mrs. Laura Stavridis, wife of Admiral Stavridis and Mrs. Saskia Hardt, wife of U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Dr. D. Brent Hardt.  The U.S. Embassy donated non-perishable, canned food items in cooperation with the Navy Liaison Office, while USSOUTHCOM through its Humanitarian Assistance Program, donated kitchen supplies and cleaning products.

Sherman Smith, President of the Bahamas National Council for Disability noted that the food items will go a long way in providing hot meals for more than sixty disabled persons in the community, particularly those who are shut-in.  He added that the donation of kitchen appliances, including a microwave oven, pots, and chafing dishes was timely, as the Council is preparing to hold a cook-out next month that will serve as a major fundraiser for the organization.  In 2006 the Embassy donated funds to the BNCD to assist with the purchase of a disabled-friendly bus.

 

Caption:  Photo shows  Sherman Smith, President of the BNCD; Saskia Hardt, wife of  U.S. Chargè d’Affaires Brent Hardt; Sheila Culmer, former president, BNCD and Laura Stavridis, wife of USSOUTHCOM Commander Admiral James Stavridis flanked by members of the BNCD during the presentation of goods and supplies.