A charity dedicated to helping the island’s seniors has been given a $2,500 boost from the Women’s International Shipping and Trade Association.

Wista Bermuda has in the past organised a “shoebox gift wrap social” to provide seniors with shoeboxes filled with essential items.

But the organisation this year decided to support seniors though a donation to Age Concern this year because of the disruption of services to the elderly caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Angelique Burgess, the president of Wista Bermuda, said: “Given Covid-19 safety protocols, we had to pivot.

“In lieu of delivering shoe boxes brimming with essential items, we decided to make a cash donation which we trust will reach seniors on the hardship list or otherwise identified as being in the greatest need.”

Claudette Fleming, the executive director of Age Concern, thanked the organisation for the donation, which will help the charity’s volunteer programme.

Dr Fleming said: “While the community is mandated to stay at home, the work of Age Concern continues – ensuring direction, information, advice, merchant discounts and financial hardship support can be administered to older adults and their families.”

She explained that the charity’s volunteer programme was more important than ever this year because of the impact of the pandemic.

Dr Fleming said: “We were delighted to have recently completed a six-week vaccination hotline in partnership with the Bermuda Government and Project Action, manned solely by volunteers contacting over 300 older adults per week.

“With the support of organisations like Wista Bermuda, the continuous commitment of our donors, staff and volunteers ensures our work on the island remains possible."

Tammy L Richardson-Augustus of Wista Bermuda, said the pandemic had caused increased stress, isolation and disruption of services for seniors.