Freeport, Grand Bahama – At a press conference held outside Solomon’s on Queen’s Highway, Carl Rotkirch, CEO and Chairman for the Grand Bahama Shipyard (GBS), announced the start of the company’s third annual food drive for the holidays.

“What started as a spur of the moment idea 3 years ago has become an island wide success,” said Rotkirch. “We are very excited to launch this year’s food drive.  Last year was a huge success and we are pleased to be assisting the Salvation Army once again.  The economy is still struggling here and we want to do our part to support those in our community who need some assistance.”

The food drive officially begins on Friday, November 23rd, and will be organized by the GBS apprentices who will man the barrels fabricated just for this event. “Our apprentices will work at the designated locations at both Solomon’s, Butler’s Food Store, Cost Right and Sawyers on Fridays and Saturdays until December 14th,” explained Ed Pavey, Director of Technical and Planning at GBS. “The apprentices have coordinated the project and they will run it –learning the importance of giving back and making a difference in the community where they live and work.”

The apprentices have begun placing barrels with ‘Lend a Hand, Give a Can’ slogans on them, and will encourage shoppers to donate canned and dried foods to fill the Salvation Army pantry for the Christmas season.  Suggested items include corned beef, rice, flour, pastas, as well as much needed toiletries.

“We are extremely grateful for the Grand Bahama Shipyard’s help,” stated Captain Compton of the Salvation Army. ”Last year we were able to help 400 families and this year we hope to help 500 families.”  Compton noted that the hurricane damage affected many and they feel these donations will make a huge difference in the help they can give. “We are a non-profit organisation and we do not receive Government assistance.  We garner funds from our thrift shop and it’s all spent to keep our pantry full.  It’s the Christian way to help and give back and this is our busiest time. We thank everyone who can help – each donation makes a huge difference.”

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