Celebrating the Spirit of Giving: Holiday Support for Tortuga Village in the Island of Trinidad & Tobago
This holiday season, O.U.R. Mothers, Inc. is proud to showcase the heartfelt contributions of Patricia Hibbert, who generously supported her hometown of Tortuga and its neighboring villages. Patricia, affectionately known as Paddy has a deep connection to Tortuga, a village beautifully situated in the Montserrat Hills of Central Range, with a vibrant mix of African and Indian heritage.
Historically, Tortuga thrived on the cultivation of cocoa and coffee, marking its significance in the agricultural tapestry of the region. This legacy later gave way to sugar cane production, which became the backbone of the local economy. However, the closure of sugar cane plantations and factories marked a significant economic downturn, leaving the community to rely heavily on growing short crops such as tomatoes, sweet peppers, pawpaw, and eggplant. These crops are now vital, sold in major markets across the country, yet many families continue to face financial hardships.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of Tortuga remains unyielding, supported by initiatives like Patricia’s. This year, she arranged for Christmas boxes filled with gifts and essentials, along with funds for holiday treats, to ensure the festive spirit reached every corner of her village. The distribution was a community-centered effort, led by Patricia's sister, Theresa Roberts-Salandy, her lifelong friend Heather Hunte, and Debbie, Boulet who played a pivotal role in organizing the children and coordinating local efforts.
The impact of Patricia’s initiative was profound, bringing joy to children and families, and strengthening community bonds through the shared experience of giving. The attached photos capture the smiles and gratitude of those who benefited from this thoughtful gesture.
At O.U.R. Mothers, Patricia's dedication is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the profound difference community support can make, particularly during the holiday season, in places facing economic challenges like Tortuga Village.
Happy Holidays!
O.U.R. Mothers, Inc.
