Volcano Relief for the Indigenous People in SVG

 
The Garifuna Indigenous People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Inc. (GIPSVG Inc.) is a New York based non-profit 501(c) (3) tax exempt, non-partisan organization with a mission aimed at the development of the communities located north of the Rabacca River, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

As you may be aware, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been through the agony of an explosive volcanic eruption which started on April 9th this year and continued for several days following, with the last one to date occurring on April 22nd. The volcanic eruption resulted in the mass evacuation of residents from the northern side of the island of St. Vincent.  Consequently, many families are now faced with social and economic hardship. The La Soufriere eruption occurred amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and the situation has been further compounded by flooding and continuous mudflows coming from La Soufriere through the rivers in these areas.

Undoubtedly, the majority of persons severely impacted by the eruption are residents of the indigenous communities north of the Rabacca River.   As Garifuna People out of St. Vincent and the Grenadines residing in NY, and most of our members having had the experience of the 1979 volcanic eruption, we can relate to the current situation of our fellow Vincentians.  The situation presents a daunting and devastating reality for families now living in shelters, and  an almost certainty that their return home would be to an ash filled home, damaged/ lost property, lost / malnourished livestocks, damaged crops etc.  The unfolding of this disastrous event  has been unnerving and heart wrenching to watch. 

Recognizing the social and economic challenges that now confront many of our displaced families, and that the recovery process will be a long and challenging one, GIPSVG is  committed to assisting our Garifuna Indigenous people in resettling back into their communities. 

Your contribution to  this 'gofundme' fundraiser will go a long way in providing relief to the families impacted by the La Soufriere eruption.

Thank you for your consideration of this appeal, and your generosity.

GIPSVG Inc.