Republic Bank Backs Vulnerable Children of Inmates

A return to face-to-face classes in schools has been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that has not prevented Republic Bank (Barbados) Limited from responding to the needs of a special group of children.

The bank has teamed up with Prison Fellowship Barbados, one of the island’s foremost charities, to fund the provision of school supplies for children whose parents are incarcerated, and so, are not present to provide that needed support.

During a brief ceremony held recently at Republic Bank’s Fairchild Street, Bridgetown offices, a presentation of $3,000 was made to Rev Neil Dowden, Executive Director of Prison Fellowship Barbados, for the back-to-school programme.

Prison Fellowship Barbados is a registered charity dedicated to transforming the lives of prison inmates through the ministry of evangelism and discipleship. Its volunteers work with prisoners and their families, seeking to positively influence them, to ensure former inmates’ return to communities is less prone to recidivism.

General Manager, Retail and Operations Sharon Zephirin emphasised the foundational corporate social responsibility initiative of Republic Bank – the Power to Make A Difference (PMAD) - underpinned most of the institution’s community interventions.

“Assisting the children of some of the most overlooked members of our society, is something that brings us great satisfaction, and wherever we can enhance the lives of our nation’s children, Republic Bank will continue to do so.” Zephirin stated.

In response, Rev Dowden praised the bank for its kind corporate gift.

"On behalf of Prison Fellowship Barbados, I sincerely thank you for your generous donation of school supplies for the children of the inmates. “We are so happy to have a kind donor like you and your support will make it possible for us to continue creating an environment where learning and other social activities are fun for the children.

“Your contribution will make a positive impact in the lives of the vulnerable children we serve. Thank you once again for your kind and generous support."