A staff donation drive at the Bermuda Monetary Authority has collected more than 350 items of clothing and supplies for the residents of six government-run nursing homes across the island.

The donations will be distributed to residents with the greatest need and include a wide range of items, from toiletries, nightclothes and footwear to blankets, snacks and holiday treats.

The nursing homes helped included Lefroy House Home Community and Packwood Home in the West End; the Sylvia Richardson Care Facility and House of Esther in the East; and Serenity Palms Nursing Home and Matilda Smith Williams Seniors Residence in Devonshire.

“It should not surprise anyone to hear that supplies and clothing are more expensive than ever before,” said Euijah Outerbridge, administrator at Lefroy House.

“I know first-hand the positive impact these donated items will have on our Lefroy House residents this holiday season and beyond. Thank you to the BMA staff and leadership for your kindness and for bringing comfort and cheer to our residents.”

In preparation for the initiative, the six nursing homes put forward a wish list. In response, the BMA invited staff to drop off items for donation during a special holiday cheer event earlier this month.

“We have seen time and time again how much our BMA staff care about the wellbeing of our community and the most vulnerable among us,” said Mesheiah Crockwell, director, human resources at the BMA.

“They have always enthusiastically embraced community-based initiatives, but their level of generosity this holiday season has surpassed all expectations.”

The organisation said this year’s BMA staff donation drive was part of an annual focus on charitable giving.

The BMA regularly encourages its more than 240 staff to participate in community-based philanthropic initiatives year round.

Past initiatives include assisting with fundraising events and hands-on work that has helped a number of Bermuda charities since 2015.