GOVERNMENT has granted approval for the leasing of a plot of land at Babu John, Port Mourant, on the Corentyne Coast, to the New Jersey Arya Samaj and its local body, the Guyana Central Arya Samaj Humanitarian Mission, for the construction of a benevolent home to cater to the needs of the vulnerable in society.
Speaking to the Government Information Agency (GINA) yesterday, President of the Mission, Pandit Suresh Sugrim, expressed his gratitude to President Donald Ramotar and the PPP/C administration for granting the lease which will enable the organisation to empower the elderly, abused men and women, and orphans in Region 6.
He explained that domestic violence, rape and suicide are social issues that are fairly dominant in some communities on the Corentyne, and the organisation is seeking to empower people, particularly women, offering them the much-needed assistance to rise above their difficulties.
“We no longer believe in handouts, because these are only temporary; the only way that we can break this vicious cycle is through education; and for those individuals who are ready to be educated, the organisation stands ready to help them,” Sugrim said.
He also expressed the hope for  stronger collaboration between the organisation and government, as he believes that, collectively, much more can be accomplished as it relates to serving the less fortunate.         
The Mission has been working in Guyana since 2005, and has since expended millions of dollars helping those in need from all sections of society, regardless of race or religion.
Sugrim said that they will  turn the sod for the construction of the facility early next year. The proposed facility will include an orphanage for boys and girls, a senior citizens’ home (particularly for elderly persons who have re-migrated and do not have relatives in Guyana), and a centre for education and empowerment.
The Humanitarian Mission is dedicated to helping children, seniors, and other individuals who are living in dire poverty.
This is accomplished through fund-raising and the generosity of contributors, sponsors, and caregivers, who provide children and other individuals with benefits and services that meet their basic everyday needs, enhancing their human dignity and raising their physical and education levels in a meaningful and lasting way. (GINA)