The Argus Group has raised nearly $20,000 for local charities, with the help of its customers.

The funds raised were used to purchase 10,000 antigen test kits for the island’s 32 non-profit organisations and were distributed throughout February.

In November, Argus partnered with The Phoenix Stores for the community fundraiser by purchasing 10,000 Healgen® lateral flow test kits and offering them to Argus customers for a donation of $2.

The money raised was used to fund the continuing testing needs of Bermuda’s third sector workers, volunteers and the people they work with.

Christopher Mundy, vice-president, client management, Argus, said: “Since the start of the pandemic, we have found creative and collaborative ways to improve the health and wellbeing of our community.

“We were proud to partner with The Phoenix Stores and delighted by the incredible response and support from our customers.

“As we know, testing has proven to be key in preventing the spread of the coronavirus and keeping organisations open,” Mr Mundy added. “It is our hope that this donation will enable Bermuda’s charities to continue their important work. We thank our customers and The Phoenix Stores for helping us to make this donation possible.”

Bermuda’s Community Foundation managing director, Myra Virgil, said: "We were pleased to collaborate with Argus to generate funds for this critical need.

“Argus’ contribution has helped bring the Hardship Fund to a level where we could take advantage of bulk pricing and resource collaboration.”

Inter Agency Committee executive director Dr Nicola Paugh said: “The contribution made by Argus to support the bulk purchase of antigen tests was an incredible help to the third sector.

“All 32 organisations that received free tests have expressed how grateful they have been for the support. The collective effort not only resulted in free tests for nonprofits but also resulted in reduced overall costs for the sector, showing the efficiencies possible when collaborating.

“This would not have been possible without the support of companies like Argus and the leadership of the Bermuda Foundation.”