Future Centre Trust's Success in Environmental Health & Charity Funding Programs, Donation Nation Makes Impact

The Future Centre Trust has reported significant success in its recent programmes aimed at addressing environmental health, charity funding, and the connection between physical and mental well-being and the environment.

One of the trust’s standout initiatives, Donation Nation, has made a substantial impact by donating over $250 000 to 16 charities last year. Located in Little Edghill, St Thomas, the thrift shop allows the public to donate unwanted items in good condition and select a charity to receive the proceeds from their sale.

Chairman Kammie Holder emphasised the environmental benefits of the programme, stating: “One of the major polluters in the world is clothing. If you had to put that in perspective, think about every piece of clothing that you would have worn as a child. Where are they today? What we do is that we encourage persons to donate their clothing and we ask you to select a charity in which you want to have that funds donated once it is sold. This is our contribution to what is known as the circular economy, where things are given an extended life or a second life. Some people see it as waste but we don’t see it as waste. We (Barbados) need to see how we can monetise what we would normally carry to the landfill.”

Holder added that the thrift shop experiences increased foot traffic during major events on the island, with people becoming more mindful of their spending in challenging economic times.

The NGO is also making progress with its trailway project in St George, which spans from The Valley to Carmichael. Stacey Alvarez, director of the trust, described it as “an incredibly inclusive space that people can come and come together, exercise, feel better, and particularly after the pandemic we all so much appreciate the physical and emotional benefits of exercise outside”.

The trailway project incorporates fruit tree planting to enhance food security, including cherries, mangoes, soursops, and ackees along the route of the railway which ended in 1937. Additionally, shade trees with cultural significance for Barbadians, such as mahogany and baobab, are being planted. Alvarez noted that the area serves as a learning environmentfor environmental science students and shows potential as a tourist attraction.

Plans are in the early stages to develop a similar project in St Philip along the old railway route through Congo Road to Bushy Park.

Alvarez also expressed concern about persistent illegal dumping across the island and urged Barbadians to address the issue. The next island-wide clean-up is scheduled for June 7, two days after World Environment Day.(SZB)