June 12, 2006, Soufrière, St. Lucia, West Indies – In an ongoing effort to support the community, Ladera will donate 280 wheelchairs to handicapped islanders. Valued at $21,000, the chairs will be presented to disabled Saint Lucians in an upcoming ceremony at Malgretoute Hospital.
The 280 wheelchairs, which are on island now awaiting customs clearance, include a variety of sizes ranging from 12 inches to 20 inches, and will be able to suitably accommodate every age and height. The chairs will be distributed to handicapped residents currently relying on wheelchairs that are either outdated or damaged. Ladera has a list of 150 requests from citizens in the southern portion of the island. The resort is in the process of developing a similar list for those in need in the north.
"We are pleased to support this very important cause," said Robert Stewart, General Manager of Ladera." The moment St. Lucians receive their new wheelchairs, we know this will make a difference in their lives. It is very gratifying to be able to make an immediate and direct impact on our community through this worthy effort."
Ladera's charitable effort has been made possible through their cooperation with The Wheelchair Foundation, a nonprofit organization leading an international effort to create awareness of the needs and abilities of people with physical disabilities, as well as local St. Lucian agencies and residents, including the Rotary Club of Gros Islet, Hunte Shipping Company, and Mr. Joseph Harris who assisted Ladera in having the import duty levied.
About Ladera
Ladera is an eco-lodge style property with six villas and 21 suites, each modeled on luxurious tree house living and located at an altitude of 1,100 feet above sea level feet and surrounded by the lush Saint Lucian rainforeSaint Since November 2006, Ladera was named the "Best of the Best" Hotel in the world by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler and the #2 hotel in the Caribbean by Travel +Leisure. The guest rooms were intentionally designed with just three walls, affording spectacular, unobstructed views, while remaining sheltered, safe, and completely private. For more information, visit www.ladera.com.
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For reservations guests may call Ladera toll free at 800-738-4752 or send an email to . More information on the resort and other special packages is also available on the website at www.ladera.com.