St. Maarten groups earn 2nd place at Netherlands National Volunteer Awards

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ruby Labega Primary School on Thursday, September 17, 2026, in Sint Maarten. The agreement marks an expansion of the Club's existing Breakfast Program, bringing it to additional students at the school. The signing represents a formal commitment between the community organization and the educational institution to ensure more children have access to a morning meal. Breakfast programs at the school level are widely recognized for improving student attendance, concentration, and overall academic performance. The expansion reflects the Rotary Club's continued investment in youth welfare and food security across the island. No details were provided regarding the number of students expected to benefit or the program's funding structure.

International Coastal Cleanup Day is observed annually on the third Saturday of September, bringing communities around the world together to remove trash and debris from coastlines. In 2026, the event falls on Saturday, September 19. St. Maarten, as an island nation heavily dependent on its beaches for tourism and marine ecosystems, stands to benefit significantly from participation in this global initiative. The event encourages residents, businesses, and visitors to take direct action in protecting coastal environments. Coastal cleanups help reduce plastic pollution, protect marine wildlife, and preserve the natural beauty that draws visitors to Caribbean islands. The annual observance also raises broader awareness about the sources of ocean pollution and the importance of sustainable waste management.

World Beach Day is observed every year on the third Saturday of September, serving as a global reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving coastal ecosystems. In 2026, the date falls on Saturday, September 19. The day is designed to raise awareness about keeping beaches clean and safeguarding the marine environments that border them. For an island like St. Maarten, where beaches are central to both the local economy and community identity, the occasion carries particular significance. Coastal health directly impacts tourism, fishing, and the overall quality of life for residents. The annual observance encourages individuals, organizations, and governments to take active steps in reducing pollution and maintaining healthy shorelines. As the 2026 date approaches, residents and stakeholders are reminded to plan participation in beach clean-up and conservation activities.