Supporting Our Communities in Crisis
The Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association (GHTA) demonstrated exceptional leadership and coordination in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl. Under the guidance of CEO Arlene Friday, GHTA mobilized swiftly to support affected communities across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, prioritizing immediate relief and long-term resilience.
Immediate Response
As an integral member of the National Emergency Advisory Council (NEAC), GHTA was pivotal in disseminating clear and immediate communication with stakeholders during the crisis. Upon learning that the Category 4 hurricane had severely impacted Grenada’s sister islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, as well as the northern part of the mainland, GHTA sprang into action to address urgent community needs..
Key Initiatives:
- Tourism Enhancement Fund Activation: GHTA allocated over $30,000 EC from the fund for essential relief goods, focusing on the residents of Petite Martinique. This rapid allocation ensured that critical supplies were available where they were needed most.
- Collaboration with Aquanauts: Recognizing the logistical challenges posed by the hurricane’s aftermath, GHTA partnered with Aquanauts, a valued dive sector member, to coordinate the transportation and distribution of relief supplies. This partnership ensured timely support for those affected
- Support from SLHTA: The St. Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association (SLHTA) played a crucial role by providing a generous donation and organizing a hurricane supply drive, significantly bolstering relief efforts in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. SLHA mobilized a hurricane supply drive in support of Grenada and chartered a boat to transport essential supplies to GHTA to distribute to victims of Beryl.
Focus on Northern Grenada
In Northern Grenada, GHTA’s proactive approach included conducting wellness checks and addressing immediate needs using funds from the Tourism Enhancement Fund. Collaborating with SPECTO, GHTA delivered vital supplies to severely impacted communities, highlighting the importance of partnerships in crisis response.
Community Engagement
GHTA’s swift response to the needs of Petite Martinique included purchasing over $30,000 in relief supplies. When distribution challenges arose, GHTA acted quickly to ensure aid was delivered within a day, with invaluable support from RAMS Trading Company.
Commitment to Recovery
Post-hurricane, CEO Arlene Friday emphasized direct communication with affected members to understand their needs and the broader community challenges, particularly damaged farmlands. GHTA remains dedicated to providing ongoing support, reinforcing its commitment to recovery and resilience.
Regional Solidarity
The spirit of regional solidarity was exemplified on July 19th, 2024, when GHTA received a significant donation from SLHTA. Their rapid mobilization of a hurricane supply drive showcased the private sector collaborative efforts necessary in times of crisis.
Conclusion
GHTA’s proactive initiatives underscore the importance of collaboration among public and private sector partners both locally and regionally, emphasizing sustainability and resilience in the tourism sector. Together, we are committed to building a stronger, more sustainable Grenada capable of withstanding future challenges. For GHTA’s efforts, GHTA was awarded the 2024 CHIEF Award for Best Practice in Social Responsibility and has been a featured speaker in webinars with the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and at St. Lucia Hospitality Association (SLTHA’s) Annual General Meeting to share best practices across the region.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Arlene Friday, GHTA CEO
Tel: 458-1897
arlene@ghta.org
Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association | P.o. Box 440, St. George’s, Grenada, West Indies
Tel: (473) 444-1353 | E-mail: info@ghta.org | Website: www.ghta.org
