Private Support Leads to Epic Response for Convoy of Hope
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (PRWEB) October 03, 2017 -- A shipping vessel containing more than $2 million worth of emergency food and relief supplies arrived in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) last week. The ship and its contents are part of a united response organized by Convoy of Hope and made possible through the support of private citizens and businesses.
“To see the suffering and the damage firsthand, there was no option, for us, other than to get involved,” says Curt Richardson, who founded Otter Products and Blue Ocean Enterprises, with his wife, Nancy. “This whole nation has been wiped out. There is no part of it that was spared. For us, it’s a long-term response.”
Much of the BVI was decimated by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. At least five people died, thousands were left homeless and up to 80 percent of homes and businesses were destroyed. Deployment of a large vessel, such as the one that recently made port in the BVI, is a first for Convoy of Hope.
“The Richardson Family and employees of Blue Ocean Enterprises partnered with us on the ground from day one of our response to bring help and hope to families in need,” says Kirk Noonan, vice president of Communication and Innovation for Convoy of Hope. “Because of their immediate assistance, we were able to expedite water, food and food vouchers to survivors and obtain the ship that will provide aid to countless families for many weeks to come.”
Curt and Nancy Richardson have been long-time supporters of Convoy of Hope and have built their businesses on the premise that to whom much is given, much is expected. They encourage others to donate their time, talent or treasure during this time of great need. With personal and business interests in the BVI, the Richardson family and their employees were more than willing to help spearhead the response through funding, manpower, networking and with the donation of 200 OtterBox Venture coolers to transport cold water and warm food to residents throughout the BVI.
“The coolers allow us to do mobile distributions, which are invaluable during disasters,” adds Noonan. “The support of the Richardson family and others has been incredible.”
Currently, Convoy of Hope is partnering with the local government to provide short-term aid and will shift its focus to helping restore communities through longer-term recovery work.
To get involved, please donate to the BVI, volunteer or learn how your business can get involved here.
About Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope, a faith-based organization founded in 1994, has a driving passion to feed the world. With a long history as an early responder in times of natural disasters, Convoy of Hope has been a Four Star Charity as recognized by Charity Navigator for 14 consecutive years. Since 1994, Convoy of Hope has served more than 85 million people. For more information please visit convoyofhope.org.
Molly Erickson, Convoy of Hope, http://www.convoyofhope.org, +1 (417) 300-5432, [email protected]
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