Leh We Paint campaign launched to boost national pride

MP for St Michael Central Tyra Trotman and CEO of the Rural and Urban Development Commission Russell Armstrong (Photo by Ricardo Roberts) Member of Parliament for St Michael Central Tyra Trotman joined the launch of the government’s Leh We Paint campaign at Harris Paints in Wildey on Saturday. The initiative is intended to encourage Barbadians to beautify their homes and communities ahead of Independence celebrations rather than waiting until Christmas. This year’s campaign coincides with Barbados marking 60 years of Independence and the fifth anniversary of becoming a republic. MP for St Michael Central Tyra Trotman and CEO of the Rural and Urban Development Commission Russell Armstrong (Photo by Ricardo Roberts) Explaining the thinking behind the initiative, Trotman said the aim is to foster national pride and encourage residents to begin improvement projects earlier in the year. “The Leh We Paint initiative was brainstormed by the government because what we wanted to do is spread Barbadian pride,” the campaign spokesperson noted. “I know a lot of people usually paint their homes coming to Christmas, but we wanted to change that… we wanted to get [people] out a little earlier because, at the end of the day, we have reached so far as a nation.” To help make painting projects more affordable, the government partnered with private-sector companies, including Harris Paints, Berger and Sherwin-Williams, which are offering discounts of between 30 and 60 per cent on paints until November 30. The programme also includes assistance for vulnerable households. Members of Parliament from all 30 constituencies worked with the Rural Development Commission (RDC) to identify homes in need of support. Selected households will receive paint and labour at no cost. Officials launch the Leh We Paint campaign with a motorcade through several parishes (Photo by: Ricardo Roberts) “I know there are some persons out there who may not necessarily be able to afford the paint, and that is why we collaborated with the private sector,” Trotman explained. “Each MP in their various 30 constituencies was able to select a handful of homes who may not be able to afford the paint, even at a discounted rate… and through collaboration with the RDC, we were able then to select some homes who will get the paint and the painting completely free.” She pointed to the wider benefits of home improvement efforts, saying they can enhance neighbourhoods and boost community spirit. “When you paint, you’re uplifting the neighbourhood, you’re uplifting the environment, you’re spreading cheer,” she said. “When you come home to a freshly painted house, there’s a sense of peace and pride and belonging. So that is what we wanted Barbadians to feel, especially this year.” Saturday’s launch included a motorcade through St Philip, Christ Church and St Michael to promote the initiative. (RR)