Island Gems donates appliances to Hearts United

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Island Gems donates to Hearts United. From left: Donna Morrison-Wilson, Janice Byass, Administrator, Marilyn Aaron, and Nyomie Pantophlet of Hearts United Foundation with Island Gems Member Jody Rosen and President Alita Singh. 

 

PHILIPSBURG — The Island Gems Charity Foundation has made a contribution to the Hearts United Foundation, donating a stove, freezer, and gas bottle to enhance the foundation’s ability to support seniors and vulnerable individuals within the community. This donation will directly benefit the foundation’s “Adopt A Grandparent” programme, which aims to bridge the gap between seniors and youth while alleviating loneliness among the elderly.

The donation was formally presented to the foundation’s leadership, including Donna Morrison-Wilson, Executive Director, Ms. Janice Byass, Administrator, and seniors Ms. Marilyn Aaron and Ms. Nyomie Pantophlet by Island Gems President Alita Singh and Member Jody Rosen. These appliances will serve an essential role in storing meats and preparing meals for the foundation’s various activities, including its weekly Soup Day and special events for seniors.

The foundation, which serves a database of 60 seniors, provides meals, companionship, and recreational activities such as island tours, park outings, and lagoon cruises. “This donation will help us ensure that our seniors enjoy nutritious meals and foster deeper connections with our youth volunteers,” said Morrison-Wilson. “We are deeply grateful to Island Gems for supporting our mission to uplift and empower the community.”

In addition to the “Adopt A Grandparent” program, the foundation offers a range of initiatives, including an Adult Literacy Program for adults seeking to learn reading and writing, Youth Empowerment sessions, and a Second Chance Hospitality program. This latter initiative allows vulnerable individuals to gain valuable skills and certification through the American Hospitality & Lodging Association.

Through partnerships with schools like St. Maarten Academy Interact Club, NIPA, American University of the Caribbean, and church youth groups, the foundation’s programs provide meaningful opportunities for young people to engage with seniors. These intergenerational connections foster mutual respect and understanding while creating cherished memories for both groups.

Island Gems Charity Foundation continues to play an integral role in the betterment of communities in St. Maarten and surrounding areas. By focusing on tangible contributions, the foundation ensures that local initiatives can operate sustainably and effectively.

Island Gems is the island’s longest-standing charitable organization. Committed to supporting local initiatives, the foundation raises funds through events and community support to provide essential resources to programs focused on education, health, and social welfare. The foundation raises funds to support projects via its annual costume gala. This year’s gala will be on Saturday, April 12, at Emilio’s restaurant. Tickets cost US $125 per person and are available from all Island Gems.