Community
First Regional Facilitates Water Tanks for Bamboo Residents

First Regional's Marketing Manager, Miss Kerry-Ann Gordon (left) presents to Soroptimist Barbara Byron-Black a symbolic cheque, representing the cost of underwriting the acquisition of the ten water tanks.
At least ten families in the Bamboo area of St. Ann are now receiving vital water supplies, as a result of the donation of ten water tanks by the Soroptimist Club of Northern Jamaica.

The Club had conducted a survey in the Bamboo area which found that a number of households headed by women lacked access to water; and approached First Regional Co-operative Credit Union Ltd. which underwrote the cost of the tanks.

At a handing over ceremony in June 2013, First Regional's CEO Patricia Smith said the Credit Union was more than happy to partner with the Soroptimist Club to donate the water tanks in order to help address the water challenges faced by the Bamboo residents.

Ms. Smith told the gathering that throughout history, women and girls have faced poverty and discrimination solely on the basis of their gender. She noted that part of the Soroptimist Club's mission is to empower women by giving them the resources they need to improve their lives.

Four families received 200-gallon tanks, while six families received 400-gallon tanks. Club member, Mrs. Donna McKoy, shared with the residents some of the benefits of access to potable water. She urged them to care for the water tanks so that they will serve them well.