By Mrs. Sharon Ramkissoon-De Freitas, Director of Business Development
The word philanthropy is rooted in two Greek words: *philein*, meaning to love, and *anthropos*, referring to humankind. Thus, philanthropy embodies the love of humanity. It is often said that while one can give without loving, one cannot love without giving, for love, fundamentally, is a verb. As followers and ambassadors of Christ, it becomes almost second nature to live our lives expressing philanthropy through giving.
Reflecting on this principle, many of you reading this have committed yourselves to making the world a better place by sharing your time, knowledge, resources, and very lives for the betterment of your communities. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and you are deserving of the highest commendation and deepest appreciation. Thank you for what you do. Thank you for what you give. Thank you for caring. Thank you for responding to the call to make a difference.
Human needs are endless, and so are God’s blessings. As I once read on a tea cup, “Give what you have; it may be better than you think.” This sentiment has been proven time and time again during my tenure at USC. Donors and patrons, united by a single item, experience the joy and blessing of giving, mirrored by the joy and blessing of receiving.
As USC prepares to relocate its thrift store to the newly renovated ‘barn’ and expand to include an on-campus grocery and convenience store, we issue a call to our USC alumni, community, and friends to express their love of humanity through giving.
We invite you to donate items such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, foodstuff, and household items, as even the smallest contribution can have a significant impact. It might be better than you think.
Donating to the USC Thrift & Convenience Store is easy:
- For local donors, please call Mrs. Sharon Ramkissoon-De Freitas at 682-4299 or 662-2241 Ext. 1211, and arrangements will be made to collect items.
- If you are abroad, collect items, box or barrel them. Call Laparkan Shipping Company and address them to Ms. Peggy Guerrero, University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), Royal Road, Maracas, St. Joseph, Trinidad. Tel.: 1-868-471-7111.
Your generosity and love can transform lives. Join us in this philanthropic mission, and thank you for answering the call to donate.
