The Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda applauds the Bermuda Government on its recent announcement of a $25 million funding package dedicated to social services and supports—the largest such investment in two decades. This move signals an important commitment to addressing the social and economic challenges faced by many in Bermuda’s community.
The Nonprofit Alliance has been advocating for increased social funding to better service those in need, and address the escalating social and economic challenges on the island. Executive Director Dr Nicola Paugh stated, “It is more effective and cost-efficient to prevent issues before they escalate, rather than facing costly remedies. Research in prevention science has consistently demonstrated the economic benefits of early social investment. Social investment plays a vital role in reducing vulnerability and disparities, while fostering well-being, equity, and unity within communities. Therefore we welcome the news from Premier Burt on this significant social investment. We are particularly pleased to see the government’s recognition of the critical role that nonprofit organizations play in delivering essential services on our island. This recognition is meaningful. We look forward to hearing further details about the allocation of specific grants to the nonprofit organizations highlighted. Such funding is crucial to ensuring that the sector has the resources needed to deliver quality professional services. Congratulations again to the Premier and his Government on this historic investment.”
A white paper [available online] released by the Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda in July 2024 highlights that despite existing social supports, there is a consistent trend towards greater disparities in health, education and economic opportunity on the island. The paper provides an analysis of problematic health and social indicators, including a 20-year trend toward widening income inequality between blue collar and white collar workers. The paper argues that underinvestment in social supports and services is part of the problem, which has left nonprofits to fill critical gaps while they struggle to meet a growing and unsustainable level of need. The paper advocates for deeper social investment, including greater funding for Bermuda’s nonprofits.
The Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda believes it is important to establish a national social plan that prioritizes participatory discussion and action. Such a platform will assist greatly in maximizing the best use of the resources we have available; formalizing a shared purpose and setting clear expectations of roles and responsibilities.