Black Sands Swim Squad raced against the clock out of the pool on Sunday 23rd February when the team took its inaugural community project to clean up and paint the Salvation Army Childrens’ Home in Pembroke.
It was swim mom Shivern Peters that brought the project to the attention of Black Sands Coach Kyle Dougan back in January 2020 and together they formed a planning team consisting of Jake Heimann, Loren Gun-Munro and Akin John.
With an optimistic completion date, the team conducted fundraising events and leaned towards many local businesses for donations. BSSS organised hosting the children and staff at Shrewsbury Aquatic Center for the day allowing 16 BSSS swimmers, along with their parents and other volunteers to successfully carry out the project in just nine hours. All interior rooms were repainted and all light fittings were replaced.
Living Art Landscaping transformed the garden by donating over 40 ornamental plants, also planting lettuce, kale, cabbage, sweet pepper, tomato, basil, rosemary and thyme. Soursop, plumrose, golden apple, five finger, guava, cocoa and cherry trees were also planted.
The friends and family of BSSS would like to thank Soho House (Canouan), former and current Mustique homeowners and Equinox International for their financial contributions. G.I. Investments for steam cleaning all of the mattresses. Mr Dover for giving his electrical expertise for the day along with Mr. Benneth and his professional painting skills. Kaitlin Rhode and Robyn Milloy of St. James’ Medical College for contributing their time and Knolly B for his fantastic grilled chicken. Also the many generous donations received.