In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Barbados Public Workers’ Cooperative Credit Union (BPWCCUL) transformed streets surrounding its Belmont Road headquarters into a festive delivery route on Tuesday. A team of staff volunteers dressed as Santa Claus and elves embarked on a special mission to distribute Christmas gifts directly to children’s doorsteps in the neighboring communities.
The initiative, which specifically targeted children aged three to ten years old, also included distributing small treats to elderly residents encountered during the delivery route. Branch Manager Michelle Ashby described the effort as part of the credit union’s ongoing commitment to giving back to both members and non-members alike who support the institution throughout the year.
According to Community Relations Officer Stacy Mottley, this charitable outreach represents a tradition spanning more than two decades, though this year’s approach marked a departure from previous celebrations. Rather than inviting children to their branch facilities, BPWCCUL staff took the festive experience directly into the community, focusing specifically on areas immediately surrounding their Belmont Road headquarters.
The volunteer corps included staff members from multiple branches across the island, including Emerald City and Carlton Black Rock locations. Retail Manager Harriett Franklin emphasized that the initiative reflects the organization’s community-based values and commitment to spreading Christmas joy beyond financial services.
The credit union plans to continue its seasonal community engagement activities in the coming days, strengthening its role as both a financial institution and an active community partner during the holiday season.