Some residents of Richland Park experienced an early Christmas this year when members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coastguard distributed 45 food baskets in that rural community.{{more}}

The event took place on Thursday, December 11, 2008, at the Richland Primary School.

This is the ninth year the Coastguard is embarking on this social venture.

During the first seven years, the initiative was centered around the Calliaqua district, and then the decision was made to spread it around to other areas. Last year, residents of Barrouallie and Biabou were the beneficiaries.

At a short ceremony before the distribution of the boxes, Lieutenant Ralphie Ragguette delivered the welcome remarks.

Lt.Ragguette mentioned that while protecting and building the nation is top on the Coast Guard’s social priority list, the Coastguard is using the social tool of cultivating and promoting the Coasguard service through efforts such as the food basket distribution programme to foster a closer relationship with the community.

The baskets were presented by Area Representative Girlyn Miguel, Coastguard Commander Brenton Cain and Lieutenant Ragguette.

The venture was made possible through sponsorship from the local business houses and individuals.

Meanwhile, on December 22, 2008, the Coastguard will move to Chateaubelair to distribute an additional 40 food baskets.

Along with the Christmas food basket distribution, the Coastguard is also involved in other community activities such as its Youth Development Programme, school programmes, and sessions for tour guides, among others.