Sandals Resorts International (SRI) is commemorating the 15th anniversary of its non-profit arm, the Sandals Foundation with a new, year-long campaign titled, Empower 15. The project aims top harness the strength of the Caribbean sun to bring sustainable solar energy to Caribbean schools, ensuring a much-needed power supply that allows for digital learning to continue uninterrupted.
Kickstarting the campaign and in tribute to Caribbean Heritage Month, for every donation of US$15 or higher made to the Sandals Foundation during the month of June 2024, Sandals Resorts will donate US$15 to The Power of 15 project.
Throughout the year, Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts guests can also support the Sandals Foundation by engaging in programs like Pack for a Purpose, Reading Road Trips, sea turtle watching experiences and more, during their Caribbean vacations.
“Providing access to a reliable and cost-efficient energy source puts Caribbean children at an advantage. Power is power in today’s world, where a digital divide is determining who succeeds and who may be left behind,” said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation. “We celebrate and lean into our 15 years of work empowering Caribbean communities combined with a donor initiative bringing forward the power of a $15 donation to light up schools in a way that limits carbon footprints through renewable energy sources.”
Through this effort, the Sandals Foundation will raise the funds needed for the installation of solar panels on school buildings in under-resourced Caribbean communities. On average in the Caribbean, one kilowatt – the amount of electricity consumed in one hour – costs more than double the average price in North America; because many Caribbean countries are subject to fluctuating global oil prices that directly impact the cost of generating electricity, the price can reach over $.51 cents per kWh. The installation of solar panels in schools will help combat these challenges for years to come.