A fundraiser will be held Saturday as a group from the Owen Sound area prepares for a trip to the Dominican Republic.
Member Lynn Hoath says they’re not going to bask in the sunshine – but to help the people in a very poor area of Consuelo known as Barrio 41.
Hoath says their goal on the week-long trip is to conduct a Community Needs Assessment.
They will visit 100 homes and speak with the residents about their needs and priorities.
Hoath says it’s a very tough environment to live in, with barely any jobs, money, or food.
She knows education is a primary concern for parents who hope to see their children escape poverty.
Hoath hopes the information they gather through their survey will help to identify future projects they can do together with the community.
The survey team will also be joined by a group of nursing students from Georgian College who will work at medical clinics.
Hoath says on their last trip – they helped almost 300 people with medical needs in just one day.
The groups have been collecting medical supplies to bring on their trip but they’re also looking for donations of shoes.
Hoath explains children are required to have shoes in order to attend school in the Dominican and says bare feet are also a safety issue in their communities.
A fundraising barbecue will be held in front of the Owen Sound Walmart on Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM.
Hoath says the proceeds will be used to buy more shoes.
The group will leave for the Dominican on April 26th and return on May 2nd.