Hydrate Caribbean expands school water station project to The Lodge

Students at The Lodge School in Barbados are ushering in a new era of health and sustainability as Hydrate Caribbean launches Phase Two of its nationwide water station project. Supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Barbados Diabetes Foundation, the initiative aims to provide students with daily access to chilled, purified water while promoting the use of reusable stainless steel bottles over disposable plastics. Although a shipment delay has postponed the arrival of the bottles until late November, Hydrate Caribbean spokesperson Sheridan Greaves has assured that every student will receive one before the school term concludes. Greaves emphasized the broader mission of the project: ‘This is about more than hydration — it’s about fostering healthy habits and reducing plastic waste for future generations.’ The campaign’s symbolic launch was marked by the newly appointed senior prefects, Head Girl Makeena Clark and Head Boy Daniel Griffith, who were the first to test the system. Phase Two will extend to St George Secondary, Princess Margaret Secondary, and Christ Church Foundation, with long-term plans to include primary schools facing significant infrastructure challenges. Each advanced water station, valued at approximately $15,000 with annual maintenance, is designed for high-demand school environments and is serviced by Newport Water Barbados within eight hours if issues arise. Greaves highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, ‘This programme addresses the neglect of water stations, ensuring students no longer resort to unsanitary alternatives.’ Sister Wendy Beaman of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints described the project as a humanitarian effort with lasting community benefits, emphasizing health, sustainability, and the reduction of plastic waste. The initiative aligns with the Barbados Diabetes Foundation’s health drive, which educates students on the importance of water consumption and active living to mitigate future health risks. As students celebrated the launch, Greaves encouraged them to take ownership of the water stations, reminding them that small habit changes can lead to a healthier lifestyle.