By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT — Lewis Yard Primary will benefit from a $100,000 donation from BORCO just as the school is preparing to relocate to a new campus in Hunters this September.

The Bahamas Oil Refining Company International Limited (BORCO) announced on Wednesday that it will contribute more than $100,000 in computers, printers, desks, chairs, and other classroom-related supplies to the primary school. According to a press release, the company will purchase the classroom supplies from local vendors and deliver them directly to the Ministry of Education.

Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald had issued an appeal to the local corporate community to assist the government in its efforts to relocate the school. For many years the old school campus had been plagued by continuing emissions from the nearby plants. This posed a serious health risk to students and teachers. The government was able to negotiate with the Catholic Board of Education to use the St Vincent de Paul campus to accommodate the students and teachers of Lewis Yard Primary. The generous contribution by BORCO is part of the company’s continuous efforts to strengthen the local education system and its partnership with the Ministry of Education in identifying the needs of students.

“We’re thrilled to furnish Lewis Yard Primary School students with supplies and tools for a successful year ahead,” said Greg Laroda, BORCO Senior Director of Terminal Operations. As part of its contribution, BORCO will fully equip a computer centre and library with 35 computers and accessories as well as flat-screen televisions. In addition to new desks and chairs, all classrooms will be provided with a refrigerator, microwave, and water cooler. Educational tools, including an interactive whiteboard and computers, also will be provided to assist children with special needs.

“Additionally, the company has committed to supplying back to school material in the amount of $3,500 to prepare students at Lewis Yard Primary for their first day of school in September.”

Mr Laroda said BORCO takes pride in the Grand Bahama community. He stated that their donation to help the students of Lewis Yard Primary is one of many initiatives in place this year to support its neighbours and give back to the community.

BORCO is a subsidiary of the Buckeye Partners, LP. It is the largest storage terminal in the Caribbean, with the ability to store, blend, and transship bunker fuel oil, crude and other petroleum products. The company employs 180 persons in Freeport. It is spending over $200 million in its current expansion in the Bahamas. Bahamian contractors are playIng a significant role in the expansion project.