Duracell® Trinidad and Tobago has donated cases of Duracell® batteries, 1,000 sandbags, 250 ponchos and 100 First Aid Kits to the ODPM’s emergency relief stock. Details follow in this press release…
As the 2022 Wet and Atlantic Hurricane Seasons are upon us, Duracell® Trinidad and Tobago continues to mobilise resources to support the ongoing resilience-building efforts of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM). For the third consecutive year, the company donated cases of Duracell® batteries, 1,000 sandbags, 250 ponchos and 100 First Aid Kits to the ODPM’s emergency relief stock.
“We believe that one of the most focused ways in which these vital products can reach communities quickly and efficiently is by placing them in the hands of the ODPM, the National Disaster Office. Massy Distribution is the trusted distributor for a range of Duracell products, and we have a responsibility to support affected communities during disasters, emergencies, adverse weather and natural disasters, through partners such as the ODPM” commented Duracell® Divisional Manager, Vitra Jitman during the handover.
She also added that “In times of an emergency, adverse weather, and flooding, the ODPM team coordinates agencies to ensure effective response and relief distribution to affected communities and this type of public service is truly commendable.”
Mrs. Marissa Ramkissoon, Chief Operations Officer added that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Massy Distribution provided unwavering support to various affected groups throughout the country. “Our contribution of emergency supplies is another way we intend to continue to be a part of the collective community response to help our family of fellow citizens in crises.
During a natural disaster when electricity may be unavailable for an extended time, Duracell® batteries are a reliable power source for devices in the home and in some instances, life-saving devices for those with medical conditions. They can deliver extra performance and are known for lasting 10x longer.”
Major General (Retired) Rodney Smart, Chief Executive Officer of the ODPM, received the supplies on the ODPM’s behalf and expressed his gratitude to Duracell® for its continued support and partnership. He highlighted that it is through partnerships such as these, the ODPM is better able to support first response agencies, bring comfort and relief to individuals and communities, who unfortunately are affected by adverse events.
This he said applies in both Trinidad and in Tobago, but also regionally, citing Suriname as one of the most recent examples, of a country to receive support from the ODPM, on this country’s behalf.
He also took the opportunity to encourage companies to join the ARISE Network that currently advances public-private partnerships for disaster risk reduction and management. This he said was critically important as climate change is resulting in the occurrence of more frequent and intense adverse weather events.
He further underscored investments in prevention, mitigation and recovery actions can lessen impacts to individuals, businesses and communities.