BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, December 5, 2022 – Philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, the Sandals Foundation is the latest partner to join the Future Centre Trust’s Barbados Trailway Project. The BDS$10, 000 contribution will see the planting and 1- year maintenance of over 100 trees along the trail.

Over 20 Sandals Foundation volunteers were recently on hand at the space stretched behind Bulkeley/Carmichael in St. George to assist with the planting of sea grapes, mahogany and ackee tree seedlings - enhancing the exercise experience of Barbadians who utilize the trail in their health regimen. 

Managing Director for Sandals Barbados and Antigua Mr. Carl Beviere expressed delight to be part of the initiative, noting the commitment of the company and its philanthropic arm to support Caribbean communities develop the infrastructure that support families and their health goals. 

“We were excited to get involved with the Barbados Trailway Project as it emphasizes the importance of physical activity as a way to get healthy and reduce non-communicable diseases.”

“The Sandals Foundation is committed to supporting healthy communities,” continued Beviere, “Across the Caribbean, our annual eye, dental and health fairs offer a critical service to families in need. As our society grapples with the increasing prevalence of ailments like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, exercise plays a vital role in preventing and managing these conditions.”

Highlighting the importance of a balanced lifestyle, Mr. Beviere noted that Sandals Resorts has also implemented several programmes to support the physical and mental health of its team. 

“At Sandals Barbados team members have access to our Team Member Assistance Prgroamme (TAP) which provides counselling for them and their families. We have welfare and team building activities ranging from group picnics and movie nights to adventure tours, and the annual Sports Day.”

The hotel Managing Director also notes the presence of an augmented staff restaurant menu that includes vegetarian options.

Speaking on the support of the Sandals Foundation to the Project, Chairman of the Future Centre, Trust Barney Gibbs said they were pleased. 

 "Our lead volunteer, who is an avid runner, always describes this project as a marathon, not a sprint.  The Trailway will transform the way locals, and our visitors move around this island, so giving up is not an option.  We have been sustained so far by Sandals and other champions of the Trailway, and will not rest until safe, active and equitable mobility is a reality in Barbados."

The Barbados Trailway Project aims to convert the historic Barbados Railway into a network of multi-use cycling, hiking and recreational trails running throughout the island.  The trail network will provide a safe route for Barbadians and visitors to cycle and walk, allowing people to commute and exercise.  Along with improving public health and promoting road safety, the project seeks to help diversify the tourism product, providing economic and entrepreneurial opportunities with the addition of vendors, guides, cycle tour operators, and other concessions operating both along the trail as well as in the communities it passes through.