Bahamas Hurricane Relief Fund

These past few months have been a difficult time for many. For the fisherfolk on Grand Bahama Island, it has been especially tough. After Hurricane Dorian made landfall last year, many fishermen and women were left with nothing, and many were struggling to feed their families or work. Now COVID-19 has once again devastated the Bahamas by shutting the country to tourism, which is the main source of income for most. Fishermen and women have been severely impacted by the shutdown both professionally and as they attempt to feed their families. 

In collaboration with our amazing partners, we were able to assist 58 fishermen and women in Sweetings Cay and Grand Bahama Island by donating eight 30 HP engines as well as distributing fifty $200 vouchers to purchase much-needed tackle supplies at a local marine supply store.

 Although we are just scratching the surface with this effort, it has already made a tremendous difference in the lives of those most affected. Thank you to all of those who have supported our hurricane and COVID-19 relief efforts to make this work possible.

Links:

• Thank you from Bahamian Fisherfolk

Marine Education Initiative, a South Florida based nonprofit organization, in partnership with Lend a Hand Bahamas is delighted to announce a donation of $17,300 combined with a donation of $12,700 from the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation. This donation will help purchase eight 30 HP engines for fishermen and women of Sweetings Cay and Grand Bahama Island to allow them to fish again for their families and for an income. In addition, 50 fishermen and women affected by Hurricane Dorian will receive $200 each in store credit to purchase much-needed fishing tackle supplies.

The economic devastation to the island resulting from Hurricane Dorian this past fall combined with heavy impacts of COVID-19 has greatly impacted the island. Both of these severe events have taken a large toll on the tourism industry in the Bahamas, and in turn negatively affecting the fishermen and their families on the island of Grand Bahama. Food security continues to be insufficient, thus many families that previously relied on commercial fish sales or guiding tourists in Bahamian waters for an income, are now relying on sustenance fishing to support their families.