A group of mostly Chatham-Kent (CK) residents recently travelled to one of the world's poorest countries to help improve the lives of several people.
Back in January, the Rotary Club of Chatham Sunrise planned a trip to The Gambia in order to provide a helping hand to anyone in need.
Multiple water filtration units and bicycles were handed out. The group also provided money to help build a new well.
Among the 14 who took part in the trip were CK Mayor Darrin Canniff and his wife, Christine.
He told CK News Today the group also handed out different items to a local school. This included desks, backpacks, and various teaching aids.
"It means the world to them. A number of kids' educations are going to change because of what we did," said Canniff.
He explained that the trip was paid for out of their own pockets. They, along with the other 12 members of the group, also donated $1,000 for the cause. In total, the money donations and various items came out to around $40,000 in support.
Canniff understands that some may be upset that he decided to travel instead of working to address various local issues. That being said, he explained that he used his vacation time to take the trip.
"I could have gone on a vacation and have nobody talk about it. I went on vacation, but I decided I wanted to help someone while doing it," he added.
Canniff also mentioned that any personal trips will be paid for out of his own pocket. This includes his trip to the Netherlands in 2025.
