GOVERNMENTS in developing countries, because of a lack of human and financial resources in most cases, find it difficult to satisfy the enormous demands of their populace especially in relation to the poorer sections. Therefore, support from non-governmental and charitable organisations has become an imperative.
Our country has been fortunate to have many such organisations which have been doing an excellent job in assisting the poor and less fortunate not only in the provision of material help, but in education and training as well. And on this note perhaps greater recognition and appreciation for the work of these organisations need to be given as most of them are staffed by volunteers who sacrifice their time to carry out the work of their respective organisations.
One such organisation is Food For the Poor (FFP) which is currently observing its 20 years of operations in Guyana. Without much fanfare, the  organisation has been working quietly, consistently and persistently throughout this country to help the poor and less fortunate. Therefore, being bestowed with the Medal of Service award is a fitting recognition and acknowledgement of the tremendous contribution FFP has been making towards improving the lives of thousands of Guyanese.
It was therefore no surprise that acting President and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds lauded FFP for the sterling work it has been doing over the last two decades in Guyana.
Speaking at a ceremony to mark FFP’s 20th anniversary in Guyana at Eve Leary Mr. Hinds noted: “You have moved from just the distribution of food and clothing. You have ventured into the provision of training to help the poor and you are also engaged in the development of sports, in the promotion of the arts, in skills training, sanitary blocks, schools and in helping many Guyanese to acquire homes of their own.”
He added: “The capacity of the organisation to mobilise large-scale donations is unmatched in Guyana, and so it has become important to many other organisations that depend on it for their supplies. this demonstrates the maturity and development of the organisation that is testimony to the level of leadership that has been provided by its local officers.”
An interesting and welcome move by FFP is that it has begun partnering with the government on housing development. And in this regard it recently commissioned a housing project at the Amerindian village of Capoey in Essequibo.
Such partnerships are extremely useful as they help to accelerate and add impetus to the policies and programmes of the government, particularly in the social sector.
Unlike some who have been only criticising for criticising sake, attempting to obstruct development and progress totally, FFP has been working tirelessly to improve the lives of the people and its work has borne many fruits.
Therefore, all Guyanese should salute the FFP for its sterling contributions to  social improvement and this newspaper would like to pay special congratulations on being awarded the Medal of Service which it so much deserves.