An annual summer trade event at Mimico Cruising Club organized by Pat Probert and Mary de Almeida from Bob Family Travel Team at TravelOnly over the weekend turned into an amazing show of support for the Caribbean.
The recent Hurricane Beryl (the earliest and strongest hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic), devastated two of Grenada’s sister islands (Carriacou and Petite Martinique), and five islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (Union Island, Canouan, Palm Island, Mayreau and Petit St. Vincent).
“All of these islands as of today, still do not have power and they do not know when they may get power or clean drinking water”, said Probert in a statement. “We are one big family in this travel business and when one of us hurts, everyone helps. We sent out a message asking everyone to bring something to aid these countries – and were overwhelmed by the response.”
In attendance was the Bob Family Travel Team, which included Rob Pittelli, Wendy and Shellie Sedore and Sandy and Terry Declare from TravelOnly, as well as more than 100 Travel Only advisors and various industry suppliers.
Filling two vehicles with everything from tarps and blankets to baby diapers and wipes, to toothpaste and many more items of a personal hygiene items, the travel industry in Toronto showed their love for the Caribbean.
“Although some people have left their homes for the bigger island of St. Vincent, still others have chosen to remain in their homes and vow to rebuild. But they have no roofs. In fact, they have nothing as all their belongings were taken by Beryl. We are grateful beyond measure to Pat and Mary, for organizing this event – and to each Travel Only Advisor and supplier who brought items so desperately needed,” said Shelley John, director of sales in Canada for St. Vincent and The Grenadines.
Many in attendance asked about making financial contributions. One Caribbean Canada has created a page on their website here of approved and registered charities or approved government disaster relief funds to aid those countries most impacted by Beryl.
Global Medic is recognized as a preferred charity where Canadians can either volunteer in person or make financial contributions.
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