The Minister of Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, recently engaged virtually with leaders who represent the Third Sector.
The virtual meeting included representatives, Ms. Vivien Carter, Programme Officer for the Centennial Bermuda Foundation, Dr. Myra Virgil, CEO and Managing Director of the Bermuda Community Foundation, and Dr. Claudette Fleming, Executive Director of Age Concern and member of the Advisory Committee of the Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda.
Minister Furbert stated, "As we embrace a new year filled with opportunity, the Government is committed to working more cohesively with Bermuda's Third Sector in coordinating efforts to assist those in need."
"Bermuda's Third Sector representatives expressed their desire for governmental assistance in addressing the operational requirements of cross sector coordination. They are seeking help in the facilitation of client intake screening and assessment, data collection, and the creation of a nonprofit organisation directory to ensure the precise delivery of services."
"The Ministry of Social Development and Seniors intention is to continue discussions focused on the seamless coordination of referral processes and pathways to programmes and services provided by both the Government and Bermuda's Third Sector. "
"By utilizing a collaborative method, this will ensure better accountability in delivering resources most effectively. We intend to implement models of organisational practice to measure the success of organisations in Bermuda's Third Sector who benefit from government grants to assist with hardships."
In closing, Minister Furbert said, "On behalf of the Government, I wish to express our sincere gratitude to Bermuda's Third Sector for the human and helping services provided to the community. As Bermuda continues to persevere through a global pandemic, I trust that this collaboration will strengthen resilience in the community. As this collaboration develops, I look forward to keeping Bermuda informed."