Grenada's Bonair Community Red Cross group helps elderly resident

Alfred Raymond will not easily forget June 15. On that day, the elderly resident of the Grenadian community of Bonair had his surroundings spruced up courtesy the community’s adult Red Cross group.

Fifteen members armed with buckets, boots and shovel, engaged in a vigorous cleanup.

Lu Ann McGuire, group mobilizer, commented “It is widely assumed the elderly are supported by their families. It is sad to say that this doesn't always happen, because in a world where social and economic factors are changing, there are elder people that cannot necessarily rely on their families for support”.

She went on to explain that the activity was first discussed at a group meeting and Mr Raymond’s needs were assessed. “Through observation and discussion we realise that Mr. Raymond lives alone and is given daily meals by a neighbour in the community. The group decided to support him, and include him in our community-base support programme.  He was identified and targeted as one of the most vulnerable in the community”.

On Thursday June 15, the Corpus Christi holiday in Grenada, the group visited Mr Raymond’s humble residence and brought smiles to his face by meeting some of his basic needs.  

The activities of the group on that day included: beautifying the interior, and exterior of his wooden dwelling house, cleaning his yard, and providing food, clothing and sheeting.

They also found time to entertain him with a few games and provide some physical care - Mr. Raymond has poor vision and is unable to hear properly.

Mr. Raymond was sincere in his words of thanks. “I feel good and thought everybody forget me. I did not have anything, but thanks to the Red Cross for everything they give me."

The gesture resulted in the other Bonair residents singing words of praises to the Red Cross volunteers, and some enquired how they too can join the group to do more to help the vulnerable.