Tourism Enhancement Fund Christmas Drive Hits New High with $100,000 in Food Vouchers

The Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association’s (SLHTA) Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) has disbursed $100,000 in food vouchers this year to provide much-needed support to families across the island, setting a record in the process.

The vouchers, part of its Annual Christmas Drive, were given to key community groups who will manage distribution to those most in need.

This year’s recipients include the Community Outreach Grooming Project, Dunnottar School, Lions Club of Gros Islet, Ministry of Tourism, Millet Development Committee, Miss L’s Charity Inc., NewLeaf Wellness Center, Rise St. Lucia/Safe Spaces, Rotary Club of Saint Lucia, Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, St. Lucia Dove Club, Special Educational School, Women Empowerment Group Crown On, and Willing Hands Charitable Foundation.

Chairman of the SLHTA’s TEF, Winston Anderson, said: “The TEF takes great pride in continuing our Annual Christmas Drive and spreading holiday cheer. This year’s record-setting $100,000 investment marks the highest contribution in the initiative’s 11-year history.

“2024 was another successful year for the Fund as we continued to support impactful programmes aimed at the youth, environmental sustainability, and human resource development. The Christmas Drive always serves as a fitting culmination to these efforts to positively impact lives. On behalf of the TEF Trustees, I thank our participating companies and valued visitors for partnering with us to help create a better Saint Lucia.”

The donations were made possible through the generous support of visitors and TEF participating companies: Bay Gardens Resorts, Calabash Cove, Cap Maison, Hotel Chocolat, Ladera Resort, Nick Troubetzkoy’s Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain, Sandals Resorts, Sea Spray Cruises, SunSwept Resorts, Sugar Beach A Viceroy Resort, The Landings Resort and Spa, Villa Beach Cottages and Winjammer Landing.

SLHTA CEO Noorani Azeez said the association has been celebrating the holiday season with a series of activities focused on sharing joy and goodwill. These efforts included partnering with the Ministry of Tourism and the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association to provide gifts to 200 children, donating toys to students enrolled in the SLHTA’s after-school programmes at Roseau Combined and Millet Primary, and the food voucher drive.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our stakeholders for their continued support and collaboration throughout the year, and wish everyone a joyful and prosperous holiday season,” Azeez said.