What’s the holiday season without spreading the Christmas joy?
Giving back is an important part of who we are at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort. Whether it’s how we treat employees, guests, or our local community — it’s important to us to make a lasting positive impact for those around us.
Earlier this month, we had the special opportunity to once again partner with the USVI Hotel and Tourism Association in coordination with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and Toys for Tots Foundation branch in Puerto Rico to give away over 3,500 toys to children throughout the Virgin Islands.
Every holiday season, The U.S. Marines Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots Foundation, Virgin Islands Housing Authority and the USVI Hotel and Tourism Association team up to put on this great community event. As a member of the Association, it’s our privilege to contribute in any way possible.
Toys are purchased locally whenever possible, and the rest of toys are purchased off island in Puerto Rico and brought to the USVI for distribution.
The initiative saw the Marines visiting children in 10 housing communities on St. Croix and 6 housing communities on St. Thomas over the course of two days.
This year, Bolongo Bay was grateful to be able to give by donating hotel room nights for the Marines responsible for toy distribution, as well as storage space for holding toys and a truck and crew for deliveries.
Even during a global pandemic, the Virgin Islands toy delivery would not be stopped. Special precautions were taken of course, with coordination between Virgin Islands Housing Authority Marines, children and others were wearing masks and observing distancing rules, and it was a very successful toy delivery day.
The challenges of this year have outweighed the joys in many ways, from health to financial security, and it’s likely taken the biggest toll on families. It’s our hope that a gift-giving event like those we do with the Toys for Tots Foundation provide joy and a bit of light for our fellow Virgin Islanders.
Happy Holidays to all!
