Despite the challenging economic climate, Clarien Bank has successfully raised $11,500.00 for local charity Meals on Wheels, through its 14th Annual Holiday Giveback Campaign.
Running from November 26 to December 31, 2020, the campaign encouraged clients, employees and the general public to celebrate the season of giving by making donations in honour of Meals on Wheels. This number (up to capped amount) was then proudly matched by the Clarien Foundation.
Michael DeCouto, Clarien’s EVP, Chief Digital & Marketing Officer said, “At a time when many in the Bermuda community were feeling the negative impacts of the crisis, Clarien was committed to doing our small part to make a difference to those in need this past holiday season. We wish to thank our entire community, including clients and staff, for kindly showing their support for this worthy
Bermuda charity. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Meals on Wheels and trust with the community’s help they can continue their important work for Bermuda.”
Meals on Wheels prepares freshly cooked meals for those unable to cook for themselves, such as the sick, elderly and disabled. Like many other charities, they have seen an increased demand for services due to Covid-19. They report volunteer turnover has been much greater than usual and many of the charity’s clients who could once afford to pay something towards the cost of a meal are no longer able to do so.
Peter Smith, President of Meals on Wheels, said they were very grateful for the continuing support received from Clarien – in both volunteer participation and financial contributions. He said the $11,500 donation would enable MOW to maintain a full service to clients during these difficult times.
Founded in 1976, Meals on Wheels prepares between 200 and 220 meals to people in need, four days a week, delivering them straight to their door. Their clients are the homebound, disabled and elderly of the community. According to Mr. Smith, Bermuda’s increasing senior population was reflected in those who came to the charity for help, with over 50% of meal recipients being over 80-years-old and two thirds of recipients having a chronic illness.
Mr. Smith encouraged the community to continue to support the charity through financial donations, and even more importantly by volunteering their time throughout 2021.
For more information about the charity, visit www.mealsonwheels.bm.