During the past two weeks, the Antigua and Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association (ABCTA) had been working along with the St. John’s Development Corporation (SJDC) to raise money for the people of Haiti.  Now that the initiative has come to an end, the President of the ABCTA, Nathan Dundas, sees it only fitting to say a public “thank you” to those within the local community who helped to make the venture a success.

The fund-raiser, which came in the form of four days of home grown entertainment at the Heritage Quay band stand was successful in raising over $22,000.  This is something that the ABCTA believes would not have been possible, without the support of the many entertainers and business men and women who donated their time, energy and other resources in aid of a very worthy cause.

Stores in and around the Heritage Quay area donated several items which were auctioned; all proceeds were later contributed to a Haiti Relief Fund.  Among those who contributed were United Colours of Benetton, Abbotts Jewellery, Flo’s Perfume Plus, merchants within the Vendors Mall, the Corner Store, the Linen Shop, Timeless Treasures, Caribbean Gems, Whispering Bamboo, VCNG, Island Originals, Zion, and JCM Jewelers.  Kennedy Enterprise, Island Bee Hive and Bryson’s Shipping Ltd also had some involvement in the event. 

The ABCTA boss also expresses his gratitude to the Rio Band, Queen Ivena, Roots Steel Band, Westside Symphony, Steven Gore, Ian Daniel, Jamel Knight, 3Cylinder, Flora Haywood, Lipstick, performers from within the House of Culture, the Sunnydale dancers, the Uprising dance group and the many others who so willingly kept the many onlookers entertained.

He concluded by saying he was really proud of the effort made by all of these individuals and what they were able to accomplish in such a short space of time.

The grand total of $22,236.35 which was raised, will later be later handed over to a trustworthy organisation, already carrying out relief efforts in Haiti.