The Foundation Building Bridges Saving Lives (SBBSL) successfully carried out a health and volunteer outreach initiative on the evening of May 3, 2026, along the “Bacchanal Strip” during the Carnival festivities.
This collaborative effort brought together key partners committed to community engagement and public awareness, including representatives from SXM DOET, Gesner-Orlando Simon, Director of SBBSL; Ramona Riley of Prominent Women Foundation; and Lee Williams of LGA Visionary Consulting Agency.
The outreach combined public health awareness with community volunteer promotion, engaging members of the public in meaningful and practical ways.
At the core of the outreach was a strong focus on public health awareness, with partners engaging the public on sexual and reproductive health (SRH), sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDs/STIs), gender-based violence (GBV), and human rights. Team members distributed SRH packages and educational materials to promote safe and informed decision-making.
In addition, SXM DOET supported the initiative by promoting SXM DOET 2026, taking place on May 15 and 16. Representatives distributed informational flyers, placed promotional materials at booths along the strip, and shared SXM DOET-branded items such as lanyards and other items, encouraging individuals to sign up as volunteers and take part in upcoming community projects.
As Carnival continues and approaches its end, SBBSL emphasizes the importance of maintaining safe practices beyond the festivities. The message remains clear: protection, awareness, and responsible behavior are essential not only during Carnival, but also in the period that follows.
SBBSL extends sincere thanks to all partners, including SXM DOET, for their contributions to this initiative and remains committed to strengthening community outreach while promoting health, safety, and dignity across Sint Maarten.