Marine Institute donates to local charity

The Fisheries and Marine Institute (MI) of Memorial University of Newfoundland recently donated $775 to local charity Bridges to Hope

The funds were raised through a silent auction organized by MI International, the international office of the Marine Institute. The silent auction took place on March 8, International Women’s Day, and included a number of unique and hand crafted items including jewelry, wooden crafts, silk scarves, purses and a variety of gourmet foods. The majority of the items available at the auction were created by women in developing countries around the world.

“We are very pleased to make a donation to a charity that does as many good things as Bridges to Hope,” said Glenn Blackwood, executive director, Marine Institute. “MI International does a great job every year of organizing the silent auction, while Marine Institute instructors, staff and students are proud to support the auction through their generous donations.”

Derek Winsor accepted the $775 on behalf of Bridges to Hope during a special ceremony on Monday, April 18. Joining him were Blackwood and Louise Webb of MI International. The items available at the MI International silent auction were purchased, and then donated, by MI faculty, staff and managers who participated in international development projects all over the world. The original purchase of these items helped support women and their families in developing countries; while all the proceeds from the silent auction will support women and children in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The annual silent auction is an event we look forward to each year since we know our efforts will help a valuable charity such as Bridges to Hope,” said Bill Chislett, director, MI International. “I want to thank all the MI personnel who have supported this initiative; your donations are greatly appreciated and will be put to good use.”