Scotiabank ramps up COVID-19 donations

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, putting strains on individuals and families across the country, many charities and community groups are on the front lines, helping to ensure that vital supplies and support are given to those who need it most during this difficult time. Scotiabank, through the Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago Foundation has collaborated with several charities and community groups, helping them to continue their work in providing food and essential supplies to families and communities in need as well as in the facilitation of counselling services for victims of domestic violence.

We have long believed that we are an important part of the economic and social fabric of the communities in which we operate. At times such as this, when so many households and businesses are struggling, we want to do more to support those in need in tangible ways, in particular our customers and communities. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic locally, through our Customer Assistance Programme, we have helped provide financial relief to over 50,000 customers, including assistance with mortgages, loans, lines of credit, auto loans and credit cards. Additionally, for the past month, frontline healthcare employees at the South West Regional Health Authority have received meals courtesy Scotiabank as they help the country fight this pandemic. We are really pleased to be able to help these charities and community groups help those in need.

Roxane De Freitas - Chairperson, Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago Foundation commented “There has been a significant increase in persons seeking assistance for food relief due to loss of income as well as an increase in cases of domestic violence. The charities and community groups supported continue to be leaders in their communities during this pandemic, focusing their efforts on these specific causes at this time. 4,000 persons of which 3,000 are young people/youth will benefit from these donations.

The following are the charities and community groups that have received donations: the Coalition against Domestic Violence; the Foundation for the Enhancement & Enrichment of Life (F.E.E.L); Gift For Life Foundation; Halimah's Helping Hands; Kids In Need of Direction (KIND); Key of David International; Living Waters Community; the Shelter for Battered Women and Children and the Toco Multicultural Foundation for Integrated Development.

The donations have been well received with the NGOs expressing gratitude. “Scotiabank’s commitment of being a kind bank has come through in many ways over the years, but now has come through for us at KIND (Kids In Need of Direction) as we continue to serve our fellow citizens during this pandemic.” remarked Karina Jardine Scott  - KIND Founder and Chairperson. 

“The Toco Foundation thanks Scotiabank for its support of families and persons experiencing extreme hardship due to COVID-19 in the Northeast Coast of Trinidad (Matura to Matelot) region.” stated Andy Noel – Executive Director, Toco Foundation.