SEVERAL institutions feted the poor, needy, homeless and the less fortunate for the Christmas season.

The Home of Benevolence for all races, better known as the Dharma Shala, the Amerindian Hostel and the Salvation Army were among those institutions that hosted their annual Christmas luncheon. At the Dharma Shala there was a little twist, which captured the attention of all invitees, by four toddlers who were in the spotlight at the scene when they entered into a dance competition. Prizes were awarded to all of them.
US Ambassador Brent Hardt and Canadian High Commissioner———— were among the special invited guests. The US Ambassador told the children that they were all excellent and declare them all winners. He then delivered gifts to the toddlers.
At the Amerindian Hostel it was a little different. Minister of Amerindians Affairs, Pauline Sukhai feted the Amerindians at the Christmas luncheon. The Minister distributed gifts to all who were patients at the Hostel and made donations to the communities of Wikki Calcuni of Region 10 in Berbice and Mainstay/Whyaka in Region 2, Pomeroon Supernaam.
The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas luncheon was part of an entertainment program that was well-planned. The Salvation Army Division of Guyana launched its activities for the festive season. The institutions feted include the Archer’s Home, Salvation Army Hostel and the Gentle’s Women Home.
Major Carolinda Cumberbatch, who is the head of this institution, told this newspaper that plans were afoot before Christmas day. She noted that on the 16th December the Dharam Shala and Palms were among the first to have a special visit from the Salvation Army, while on Christmas day the Georgetown hospital maternity ward would be visited.
She declared the maternity ward would be filled with Christmas carols ringing through the air and the sharing of presents.  The final visit would be to the prison on the 26th December.
The Major also conveyed that a Christmas hamper distribution would be held, but this is strictly by invitation only and registration was completed earlier. She reminded all participants and those involved that the purpose of their visit is to entertain. According to the Major, different people from the institution are involved and assigned to different homes during the year, but during the festive season they all come together to visit, making it special.