Christmas is usually a time for getting together in celebration. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot of customs and norms since the first quarter of 2020. People have had to find innovative ways to safely continue business, education, host events and spread cheer and goodwill despite the challenges and struggles.
The Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Martinique through the Department of External Affairs, last Friday, handed over gifts that were donated by E-Club Caraibe Association to the children at the Pediatrics Unit of the OKEU Hospital.
Speaking on behalf of the Department of External Affairs, Foreign Service Officer and Desk Officer for Europe, Shannica Plummer-Antoine noted the impact of the pandemic and stringent measures governments worldwide had to undertake in order to mitigate and contain the spread. “Many businesses have had to shut down, families have lost loved ones, many others have lost their lives and persons have lost their livelihoods. Notwithstanding, COVID-19 has emphasized the importance of family and coming together even though virtually or socially distanced at this time,” Antoine said.
She added “the use of information and telecommunications technologies has brought us even closer together in order to deal with the impact of in person interaction. Christmas is a time for sharing, a time for giving, a time for caring and also a time for loving. Many families this Christmas and in particular parents will not be able to afford to give their children a present. However, this token will be able to bring joy and happiness to many children.”
In accepting the presentation, the Executive Director at the OKEU Hospital and the Respiratory Hospital, Nancy Francis said, “when Christmas comes along it is a time of reflection, a time of sharing togetherness and a time for us to focus on the little one in this hospital. We are very grateful that the Department of External Affairs and the club from Martinique have partnered to donate to our children in the Pediatrics Unit these generous gifts.”
The E-Club Caraibe Association membership is a grouping of humanitarians from the French and English-speaking Caribbean.