The SimplyHelp Foundation has donated over 250 boxes of shoes, toys and caps to the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment. The items will be distributed to underprivileged families and those most in need during the festive season.

The official handover ceremony was held on Tuesday morning, December 10, 2024, in the Ministry of Equity, Justice and Empowerment’s conference room on the Castries Waterfront. H.E. Peter Chia-Yen Chen, Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia, handed over the items to Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte-Emmanuel, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, on SimplyHelp Foundation’s behalf.

SimplyHelp Foundation is an U.S.-registered non-profit organization founded in 2000 by Taiwanese-American businesswoman, Mrs. Tina Bow. Over the past two years, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), in partnership with SimplyHelp Foundation, has delivered two 20-feet containers of charity goods to Saint Lucia.

During his brief remarks, Ambassador Chen said Taiwan’s support for the Saint Lucia Government’s commitment to improving citizens’ socioeconomic conditions remains steadfast.

“Under Hon. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s leadership, social security, justice and inclusion continue to be the priority of national development, and Taiwan is proud to be part of collective efforts in improving the livelihood of the people of Saint Lucia,” said Ambassador Chen.

Ambassador Chen stated that last Tuesday’s handover ceremony was special, as it was among his final duties as Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia. Nevertheless, he praised Hon. Joachim Henry, Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, and his Ministry officials for their support during his tenure.

Said Ambassador Chen: “Today’s occasion is particularly significant for me as it marks the last handing over in my tenure as Taiwan’s Ambassador. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Hon. Minister Joachim Henry, Permanent Secretary, Deputy Permanent Secretary, and their wonderful team from the Ministry of Equity for your unwavering support and friendship. The partnership we shared in these years has been the driving force behind our work. I do hope the legacy of compassion could continue and benefit every corner in Saint Lucia.”

Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte-Emmanuel, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, said her Ministry remains grateful for the annual donation from SimplyHelp Foundation, all of which goes towards bringing cheers to deserving beneficiaries during the Christmas season.

“Thank you for your generosity and your consideration to the Ministry of Equity,” Dr. Hippolyte-Emmanuel told Ambassador Chen during her remarks. “We are ever so grateful for the tokens that you bestow upon us. The timing is always so perfect. After a busy year of doing so much, we get a little rest, and you just bestow these beautiful little gifts upon us.”

Meanwhile, Mrs. Celia Charles-Arthur, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, said the spirit of giving demonstrated by the people of Taiwan continues to have a profound impact on the lives of many Saint Lucians. She said every item donated carries a message of love, hope and joy.

“It is a reminder that we all have the power to bring smiles to children’s faces and create lasting memories that will fill their hearts with happiness,” stated Charles-Arthur. “The Ministry extends heartfelt gratitude to the people of Taiwan, our team members and every one who support this initiative. Your part is important to us. Your generosity and kindness make this event possible.

Together, we are building a brighter future for our children, one item at a time.”

She added: “Every donation represents more than just items: it represents the care and compassion of the people of Taiwan and the belief that every child deserves joy and happiness during this time of year.”

A token of appreciation was presented to Ambassador Chen, whose tenure as Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia ends this month.