Roberts promises help for Taila de Souza

Sport Minister Anil Roberts says financial assistance for former national volleyball player Taila de Souza is looking favourable. Roberts promised to assist after she asked for help to pay the fees for her final semester at the American International College, Springfield, Massachusetts.

The 24-year-old is pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy and needs to pay approximately $130,000 by February 14. The Sunday Guardian ran De Souza’s story last Sunday and on Friday she said the response had been “overwhelmingly humbling” and “touching.” She had expressed hope that at least 20,000 readers of the Guardian would donate the minimum amount of US$1 to help her reach her goal of US$20,410.

She said in the past week she received about US$600 from readers, while many others called and e-mailed her making donation pledges. De Souza played for the country's national volleyball team from 2002 until 2008. If the funds collected exceed what she needs, the surplus will be used to start a scholarship for future students like herself who are hard workers and want to make a positive change in the world.

Meanwhile, Roberts said as soon as the letters of appointment were given to the board of the Sport and Culture Fund, De Souza’s case will be the first to be addressed.

• For more info: [email protected] or 908-456-6482
• Donate: First Citizens—Acct no. 1641927, Scotiabank—Acct  no.170936
• http://gogetfunding.com/project/taila-s-last-semester-of-college