Crippled by financial constraints because of the collapse of the economy, the Rapid Fire Kidz Foundation had to scrap its free eyeglasses programme for poor children last year.
However, on Saturday thanks to a corporate sponsor, Nu Iron Unlimited, 57 children from Couva South Primary School, and the Couva AC Primary School in Central Trinidad were able to get free eyewear.
During a function held at the Bougainvillea Restaurant in Couva, Chief Executive Officer of the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) Nirad Tewarie commended corporate T&T for assisting financially challenged communities and families, especially during the Christmas season even though they are facing tough economic conditions.
Tewarie noted that Nu Iron (a locally-based American company) was a member of the AMCHAM. He praised the company for agreeing to finance the Eyes Right Project. Tewarie noted that due to recent floods, and recent job losses, many people in T&T were struggling to make ends meet.
“May we remember that no matter how little we think we have, there are those who have even less. Let us reach out to them, especially during this season, which is supposed to be the season of kindness and giving, “ Tewarie said.
Nu Iron’s managing director, Jonathan McCauley, told the audience that his company was honoured to come on board with the Eyes Right Project, and pledged to finance it permanently. He said that Nu Iron was committed to investing in the welfare of not only the children but Trinidad and Tobago as a whole.
“Like all countries, there are problems. And we want to be part of the solution.” He too called upon corporate citizens to assist in whatever way they could.
President of the foundation, Kevin Ratiram, expressed deep appreciation for Nu Iron’s sponsorship. He said that the Eyes Right Project had been halted at the end of 2017, due to financial constraints, and he was overjoyed that Nu Iron had made it possible for it to continue. He said with Saturday’s presentation of the 57 glasses, a total of 617 glasses have been donated under the project.