CAY HILL — The Island Gems Charity Foundation, the island’s longest-running charity organization, has once again extended its annual support to four dedicated animal welfare groups: Animal Defenders St. Maarten, I Love My Island Dog, SXM Paws, and the Animal Welfare Foundation. The annual donations help fund essential initiatives, including sterilization programmes and medical care.
Island Gems has deposited a total of US $1,000 per organization into the groups’ preferred veterinary clinics to cover spay and neuter procedures for dogs and cats. This annual contribution forms part of the foundation’s ongoing efforts to help control the island’s feral and abandoned animal population. The deposits create prepaid accounts that the organizations can draw on throughout the year for these specific procedures.
Each of the beneficiary organizations plays a vital role in improving animal welfare across the island.
Animal Defenders St. Maarten focuses on sterilization, vaccination, and feeding programs for stray animals, while also advocating for compassionate care.
I Love My Island Dog works to reduce pet overpopulation through spay and neuter efforts and assists in rehoming stray dogs.
SXM Paws rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes abandoned animals while actively promoting responsible pet ownership.
Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF) organizes large-scale sterilization campaigns and conducts educational outreach aimed at reducing the number of stray animals.
The donations were lodged with the following veterinary clinics: for I Love My Island Dog Association – St. Maarten Veterinary Clinic; Animal Defenders – Animal Care Clinic; AWF – Animal Hospital St. Maarten; and SXM Paws – Island Vet.
Founded as an all-women charitable organization, the Island Gems Charity Foundation raises funds through its annual costume gala, with proceeds supporting non-profit initiatives that benefit projects and communities on both sides of the island. Over the years, the foundation has funded projects in education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and animal welfare.
“We are proud to continue our annual support for these organizations that work tirelessly to improve the lives of animals on the island. Their dedication to rescue, sterilization, and awareness is making a real difference,” said Alita Singh, president of Island Gems Charity Foundation.
Tickets for the annual costume gala, themed “Heroes and Villains,” on Friday, March 28, are now available. Those interested in supporting the foundation’s efforts can purchase tickets by contacting any Island Gems member.
“Every ticket purchased contributes to making a meaningful difference in our community. We invite everyone to join us for a spectacular evening while supporting important causes,” added long-time Island Gems member Jody Rosen.
