FIA finally gets some wheels

Minister of Community Development, Joan Yuille-Williams, formally handed over the keys to a new vehicle to Families In Action (FIA) on behalf of the Community Development Fund at their Maraval Road office on Monday 7th April, 2003.

The L300 Mitsubishi Window Van, PBO 2333 is the first vehicle to be owned by FIA in its 15 years of incorporation as a non-governmental organisation. Sir Ellis Clarke, first president of Trinidad and Tobago and Patron of FIA, highlighted the importance of the role played by non-governmental organisations.

“There are some things a government cannot achieve,” said Sir Ellis. He likened the services of FIA to that of a family physician, treating a variety of ills of the society. He expressed gratitude for the donation or behalf of FIA and stressed the need for greater assistance from the present administration.

Minister Yuille-Williams echoed the sentiments of Sir Ellis, advising that, “a government cannot function without NGOs.” She said that FIA is considered to be more than just an NGO, but a partner and member of the Ministry of Community Development.

“The work you are doing is certainly the work we are doing,” said Yuille-Williams as she commended the organisation for their assistance in community affairs.

The donation of the vehicle will allow FIA to meet the growing demands for its services, which come from city centres, towns and rural communities in every corner of Trinidad and Tobago.