A group of charities working in health, social advocacy, youth development and community support have received grant funding from the private, for-profit Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM), in a move aimed at strengthening community partnerships and expanding support for vulnerable groups across the island.
The grants were presented in a brief ceremony at the university on Tuesday, as senior associate dean of external affairs Dr Rhonda McIntyre praised the organisations for their dedication to improving lives and creating opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Among the organisations receiving grants were the Verdun House Substance Abuse Foundation, Rotary Club of Barbados, Rotary Club of Barbados South, Colon Cancer Initiative, Healthier Nation Initiative Foundation, Hope Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Barbados, Barbados Alliance to End Homelessness, Eden Lodge Youth Charitable Trust, Barbados Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Foundation, and the Pleion Foundation.
“Today’s ceremony is not merely a presentation of grants; it is truly an acknowledgement of your compassion, your dedication and the vision that you bring to the communities you serve in Barbados,” Dr McIntyre said.
She described each organisation as playing a critical role in addressing social and health challenges while fostering healthier and more equitable opportunities for Barbadians.
“Whether you’re creating safe spaces for young people, developing young people, or promoting access to essential healthcare services, you are addressing real challenges and making a positive impact on people’s lives every day,” she said. “We are honoured to stand alongside you as you continue to pursue your noble vision.”
While the total value of the grants was not disclosed, Dr McIntyre stressed that the university’s support extends beyond financial contributions.
“Ross University and our parent company, Covista, have a strong belief in the power of community partnerships,” she said. “This commitment is not just financial; it is about long-term relationships rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose.”
She explained that medical students studying in Barbados gain invaluable lessons through their engagement with community organisations, experiences that complement their academic training.
“Our students come to Barbados to study medicine, but they gain far more than what we teach in the classroom,” Dr McIntyre said. “The work they do with you in communities, listening, learning and lending a helping hand, shapes them into the physicians and community leaders they will become in the future.”
Thanking the organisations for their contribution to student development, she added: “You teach them empathy, adaptability and the value of service.”
Senior Associate Dean of External Affairs, Dr Rhonda McIntyre, presenting Donna and Everett Griffith, volunteers at the Hope Foundation, with their grant. (Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt/Barbados TODAY)
Senior Associate Dean of External Affairs, Dr Rhonda McIntyre presenting medical director of the Caribbean Colon Cancer Initiative (CCCI), Dr Alex Doyle, and his colleagues with a grant for their work. (Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt/Barbados TODAY)
Senior Associate Dean of External Affairs, Dr Rhonda McIntyre, presenting Dr Alison Bernard, Executive Director of Breastfeeding and a child Nutrition Foundation with a grant. (Photo Credit: Shamar Blunt/Barbados TODAY)
(SB)
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