Miss Universe makes the wheelchair giving great

Two physically challenged persons were yesterday afforded the opportunity of receiving personal wheelchairs from reigning Miss Universe, Jennifer Hawkins, who is on a four-day visit to this country. The wheelchairs, sponsored by Lysol and the Alston Marketing Company (AMCO), were given to Boyie Ali and Zaid Mohammed at a function at Tatil yesterday. In addition to the wheelchair donations, a $58,000 cheque was given to the  Foundation for the Enhancement and Enrichment of Life (FEEL). It was noted that the cheque will be used specifically for the purchase of wheelchairs for the physically challenged.

FEEL, a charitable, non governmental organisation, which includes a wheelchair committee, receives donations of wheelchairs and money for purchasing wheelchairs, from both local and international companies. The wheelchairs are then distributed to physically challenged persons, who, because of financial constraints, cannot afford to purchase the mobility aids. “One of the problems that our wheelchair committee faces is the difficulty in being able to purchase specialised chairs like heavy duty wheelchairs for those unfortunate persons who are very heavy,” said Clive Pantin, CEO FEEL. Pantin added, “now we are in a position to assist those who have sought our help.”

He also welcomed Hawkins and advised her against believing every negative thing she read about TT. “We are a beautiful nation and we have wonderful persons in TT. Everywhere you turn you will see this,” he said, “just look at our beautiful mountains, God has richly blessed us and we hope you enjoy every inch of his blessings.” Also present at the function were Peter Elias, Danielle Jones, Miss Trinidad and Tobago, and Australian Ambassa-dor to TT, John Michell.