For more than 80 years, the Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross Society has provided emergency medical and disaster response services to Antigua and Barbuda residents.
Its staff and volunteers, many of whom are island youth, respond to health and disaster needs, such as providing food and shelter during situations like Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the Covid pandemic. The longstanding and ongoing Fill A Barrel initiative allows island residents to donate nonperishable food items for distribution to their neighbors in need.
– Dr. Jose Humphreys, President
The organization offers a range of classes, including first aid, CPR, automated external defibrillator use, basic life support, and wilderness first aid. In 2023, they pioneered a training program, allowing student nurses to gain international Red Cross certification in emergency care. Additionally, they organize blood drives and offer affordable medical equipment rentals, including wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches, complete with island-wide delivery.
The Red Cross is actively involved in disaster prevention and preparedness, due to the recent increase in high-intensity hurricanes. Their goal is to emphasize climate resilience over managing post-disaster consequences. They also provide specialist training courses on climate change and environmental policies to supplement the island’s preventive measures.
