Diamonds International, the largest jewelry retailer in the Caribbean, will donate $5,000 from each of the company’s regions to disaster relief in Haiti — a total contribution of $50,000. The donation will be made to UNICEF, currently at the forefront of international relief efforts. To date, UNICEF has raised $3.4 million in disaster relief funds and is quickly converting the funds into food, water, medical supplies and temporary shelter for those in dire need. The organization is pleased with the global response, but it is communicating that additional funds will be needed in the coming weeks.
For Wendy Tarapani, managing director of Diamonds International, the commitment to donate was made without hesitation. “What happened to the people of Haiti is devastating, and our hearts go out to the victims and their families. A tragedy like this could happen to any of us, and it is important that we stand united as a global community and support each other.”
Diamonds International is also providing customers with the opportunity to donate at their store locations in the Caribbean and Mexico. St. Thomas Store Manager Jason Forbes and his staff thought that the company was the perfect vehicle to provide even more support for Haiti. Said Jason, “We’ve created a computer generated ‘donation SKU’ that allows our customers region-wide to donate any amount they desire to UNICEF. We’re hoping that within a week, we will gather enough funds to provide the people of Haiti with the basic necessities we enjoy every day. We hope to continue accepting donations from the public until this nation is able to stabilize.”
The company is also inviting locals to contribute to this cause. Kirstyn Nimmo, marketing manager, invites the local community to join in supporting this cause. “The people of Haiti have lost so much – their families, their homes and the very systems that construct their lives. We are asking that the local community support the men, women and children of Haiti in their hour of need. All locals are invited to visit our stores and give what they can.” The tragedy impacted all who work at Diamonds International, and especially affected employees who were born in Haiti and still have family there. Abe Tarapani said, “The company is praying for all those affected, both directly and indirectly. The Diamonds International family is sending thoughts and prayers to the people of Haiti.”
To join Diamonds International in support of Haiti disaster relief, please visit one of their locations on St. Thomas: Havensight, Crown Bay, Main Street, Yacht Haven Grande, Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort or Marriott’s Frenchman’s Reef Resort, or call 774-1516.
