The Guyana Relief Council (GRC) yesterday distributed assistance to nine families who lost their homes and were displaced by fires.

The families are Alice Spencer, a family of four; Abigail Forde, a family of nine; Chryslin Dey, a family of five; Adrian Gajrag, a family of five; Henry Rodney, a family of seven; Earline Dover, a family of five; Pennyhola Wilson, a family of two; Courtney Booker; and Shelly Halley, a family of five.

A press release from the council stated that the New Year has seen a large number of fires so far and the council encouraged persons to be more alert and take all necessary precautions to prevent fires.

An overview of the assistance given in 2009 states that the council assisted 75 families who were affected by fire, three families who were affected by high winds, and there were 141 cases of welfare assistance.

GRA is a non-profit, non-government and voluntary organization. Its mandate is to bring material aid to persons who suffer from natural or man-made disasters, such as fires, floods, drought and freak storms/high winds, throughout Guyana. The council also provides a temporary shelter for persons who are displaced due to these disasters.

The humanitarian work of the GRC is funded mainly through donations from local and overseas supporters, fund-raising activities and a monthly government subvention.

The council is in need and welcomes the support of individuals and organizations in the form of time, finances and materials to assist with rebuilding the lives of those in distressing situations.