BpTT donates $1.3M to help kids with HIV/AIDS

On Monday evening, chairman and chief executive officer of bpTT, Robert Riley, presented former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam with a cheque valued at $1,338,000 on behalf of the Cyril Ross Home, which has been a haven for children living with HIV/AIDS.

The handing-over took place at a cocktail reception and auction at the St Andrews Golf Club in Moka, Maraval, where Riley declared, "If we love our country and think much of its human capital, we must take care of our people. We must not lose sight of the tremendous epidemic in our midst."

It is for this reason, said the energy official, that bpTT has given not only its time, but money and commitment in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Riley said it was worrying to learn that Trinidad and Tobago is ranked second to Haiti in the Caribbean for rate of infection, and that the Caribbean is second to sub-Saharan Africa.

"Many believe we may pass Africa," he said. Riley told the gathering that BP offices across the world have raised funds for this cause. He related that bpTT had previously raised $1 million for the Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Now, the energy company’s focus is HIV/AIDS and its negative impact on society. This year’s Charity Pro-Am again features golfers from around the world. Training camps for local golfers also formed part of the tournament.