Ramps Logistics was able to feed over 2,000 families through a food bank initiative that they embarked on during the month of June.
From June 5 to 26, Ramps hosted families from all over the country who came to their four distribution points for food.
Stories of single mothers trying to make ends meet, unemployed fathers who travelled from miles away with the hope of feeding their families, and displaced roadside vendors who currently have no income are glimpses of the reality of the weekly recipients. Their stories were heart-wrenching and eye-opening, making this issue just a little more real.
Ramps was able to maintain a safe environment while assisting over 500 people per day. Their team of over 50 volunteers created an overall management system for both donations and distributions.
Additionally, the Research and Development team enabled an appointment system where the recipients were notified of the time, date and location for collection by a detailed text message. Volunteers used the included confirmation code to confirm the recipient’s identity, which cut down distribution time by two hours.
During those four weeks, Ramps’ HSSE team enforced all COVID-19 Protocols to protect the recipients and volunteers. Their internal security company, SecurUS, worked alongside the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) to ensure social distancing, seamless distribution and no incidents. This collaborative effort provided a safe environment each day of distribution
Ramps used the Food Bank to collaborate with local farmers because they too have been affected.
These partnerships eventually drove local companies to contribute, such as Unilever, Bryden Pi, Massy Stores, Pennywise, Tribe, DSM Sales and Marketing, V&S Pharmaceuticals, Grand Bay Trinidad Tissues Limited, Ladnek Limited, Fen’s of Marabella, Republic Bank, Mahabir’s Supermarket, Bermudez Group Limited, Ramprem Enterprises Limited, Shine Distributors, Tropikist Beach Hotel and Resort Limited, Latin Passion, Sunny Blingg and Media Insite.
Through the partnerships with local farmers and receiving in-kind sponsorship, Ramps was able to subsidise more than 50% of the actual cost of the hamper. This value enabled them to double the number of hampers with the same budget.
This initiative was successful because of the willing hearts of many who stepped up to help those in need. Thankfully, Ramps has documented the entire process and is ready to help any other organisation that wants to execute their own Food Bank in the future for free. If organisations are interested in hosting a Food Bank of their own, they can email marketingdept@rampslogistics.com for further details.