A grocery chain manager has been appointed as board chairman for Friends of Hospice and highlighted how the work supported by the organisation is “invaluable”.

Zach Moniz will provide leadership to the charity and its board, ensuring proper management and efficiency as well as helping to set strategy.

Friends of Hospice, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, provides volunteer and financial support for the Agape House hospice.

Mr Moniz, who is the manager of grocery chain Lindo’s Family Foods, will also oversee the development of a new purpose-built care centre for the terminally ill.

He said he was inspired to become involved with the charity after his grandmother was cared for at Agape House.

Mr Moniz explained: “The doctors, nurses, nurse aides, and volunteers created an environment of compassion — not just for my grandmother but for the whole family. That stuck with me.

“As such, I believe that everyone should have access to that kind of care if and when needed.”

He said that the specialist care provided at Agape House was “invaluable” and that the new care centre will help to ease the pressure on dwindling resources.

Mr Moniz highlighted: “Bermuda is facing a potential crisis in the years ahead, with an ageing population and dwindling resources available.

“It is true that not all of us will need this kind of care in the end, but many of us will and they will find it truly invaluable.

“My faith is a huge part of my inspiration and motivation, and I look forward to helping build something vital for the community.

“I have heard it said that it is easy to have a moral opinion about something but in order to show true compassion you should be moved to get up and do something about it. That is why I am here.”

Mr Moniz has raised money for the charity with the support of Lindo’s Group of Companies.

In 2018, he became a committee member for Friends of Hospice before joining its board in 2022.

Jennifer Mahoney, the charity’s executive director, welcomed the appointment.

She said: “Even before joining the board as a director, Zach showed unwavering support for Friends of Hospice.

“His passion and genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others make him an ideal fit as part of a team that is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for those we serve.

“As the organisation prepares to move forward and evolve further, we are well positioned for success with Mr Moniz leading the charge.

“His commitment, acute business sense and enthusiasm will ensure our success not only today, but for many years to come.

“I also want to pay tribute to Alison Soares, our outgoing chairwoman, for her years of dedicated service to the organisation that her mother, Hilary Soares, founded.

“We are grateful for all her support during the past few years and we look forward to continuing to work with her in her capacity as a director of the Friends of Hospice board.“