WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao Governor, H.E. Mrs. Lucille George-Wout, visited the Food Bank on Thursday May 14. The day after making the basic food packages, these are distributed by various organizations across the island. Mrs. George-Wout showed an extraordinary interest in the entire process of purchasing, assembling, packing and distribution, but also asked substantive questions. For example, she asked about the cooperation between the different authorities, the registration of applications and the control after the delivery of a package.

Sheryl Losiabaar, chairman of the Food Bank, talked about the creation of the Cooperating Aid Organizations Curaçao. When the Food Bank was no longer able to meet the demand for food packages, help came from various organizations. In a short time, this intensive cooperation has led to an upscaling of the food packages from 100 per month to over 3,000 per week. An achievement that everyone who takes part in this is proud of.

Losiabaar also explains how someone can get a package. “Via a WhatsApp number they are served by a call center that processes the request in a database. Using the database, we also immediately see whether someone is already registered. This also ensures that the delivery is well coordinated. The resident signs for receipt of a package, so that the administration knows when the next package must be delivered.”

After the explanation, Ms. George-Wout spontaneously picked up a bag and walked along the production line to fill it with food. She wanted to experience how this production process works.

During her visit, she took ample time to talk to representatives and volunteers from the various aid organizations. When departing, she expressed her gratitude, admiration and respect for all volunteers who work for the Food Bank on a daily basis. This collaboration symbolizes "Help us Help", the slogan of the Food Bank. She stressed calling if the Food Bank needs her assistance.

Photo credit: StudioRootz