The Tribune

MARINE Education Initiative, a South Florida based nonprofit organisation, in partnership with community partner Lend a Hand Bahamas have announced a $30,000 donation to assist fishermen and women in Grand Bahama.

The donation of $17,300 combined with a donation of $12,700 from the Yellow Dog Community & Conservation Foundation will help purchase eight 30 HP engines for fishermen and women of Sweetings Cay and Grand Bahama Island to allow them to fish again for their families and for an income. In addition, 50 fishermen and women affected by Hurricane Dorian will receive $200 each in store credit to purchase much-needed fishing tackle supplies.

“The economic devastation to the island resulting from Hurricane Dorian this past fall combined with heavy impacts of COVID-19 has greatly impacted the island,” a press release from the charities noted. “Both of these severe events have taken a large toll on the tourism industry in the Bahamas, and in turn negatively affecting the fishermen and their families on the island of Grand Bahama. Food security continues to be insufficient, thus many families that previously relied on commercial fish sales or guiding tourists in Bahamian waters for an income, are now relying on sustenance fishing to support their families.”