THE Guyana Relief Council (GRC), having celebrated its 20th anniversary last month, yesterday held an exhibition that chronicled the work of the organisation for the past 20 years.The exposition was open to the public at the National Library, Church Street, Georgetown, and attracted many persons, particularly students, who went to use the library.

Though the anniversary is observed in January, they choose to celebrate it in February, GRC Administrative Officer Lynette Carter told the Guyana Chronicle.

“The library is a public area and that’s why we hold it here. The exhibition is a means of causing people to become aware that the council exists and it highlights the type of work we do here,” she said.

The GRC gives assistance to persons who have suffered from disasters, such as high winds, floods and fires, and it also seeks to assist persons in difficult circumstances. It has four permanent staff members and two who work on a part-time basis.

The GRC usually writes to businesses seeking donations. “We can only give what we have and what we have depends on what we get from persons and organisations,” Carter explained.

The regular donors include Sterling Products Limited, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, Demerara Mutual Life, Mr. Neville Osman, Namilco, and New Building Society.

Reflecting on her work at the GRC, Carter said: “I am indeed proud to be a member working at the GRC because if you do not have a passion for helping people, you wouldn’t want to do the kind of work.”

The organisation also has a shelter. “Persons tend to shy away from the word shelter because they think shelter has some social connotation but our place is more like a haven for persons who would have had a disaster. We have self- contained rooms. You stay for a limited period because we can’t keep you forever. We provide everything, all of the basic necessities.”
The office is located at Lot X Riverview, Ruimveldt, Greater Georgetown, opposite Thirst Park.
Written By Telesha Ramnarine