In a significant holiday philanthropic initiative, the Rosebel Community Fund (RCF), established by Zijin Rosebel Gold Mines, has extended financial support to fifteen social institutions across multiple districts in Suriname. Each organization received a Christmas grant of US$2,500 during a ceremonial event held Thursday at the Ballroom Prince venue.
RCF Chairman Soetjipto Verkuijl emphasized the fund’s commitment to recognizing organizations operating under challenging circumstances. “These groups perform essential work that deserves both recognition and support,” Verkuijl stated. “Providing encouragement during the holiday season represents our commitment to standing with those who serve our communities.”
The annual Christmas Event, maintained since 2022, serves multiple purposes: acknowledging social institutions, appreciating their dedication, and offering participants a moment of respite from their demanding responsibilities.
Beneficiary organizations span various social services, including children’s homes (Johanna, Elim van de Heer, and Sukh-Dhaam), the Mr. Huber Foundation, the National Foundation for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and institutions serving physically and mentally disabled individuals. Additional recipients include the Kennedy Foundation, Mytylschool, Lotjeshuis, Huize Tyltyl, and several girls’ hostels including Balingsoela, Siswa Tama, Wisma Karijawatie, and Soender Singh, along with the Elizabethshof Student House.
The RCF primarily focuses on community development around the Brokopondo district gold mining operations. Verkuijl revealed that the fund has invested over US$2 million in socio-community projects throughout the past year, spanning healthcare, education, and small business development support.
Among notable ongoing initiatives is the development of an educational complex with accompanying dormitory facilities, representing the fund’s commitment to sustainable improvement of educational infrastructure in the region.