THE spirit of Christmas was on Friday ushered in with the traditional launch of the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal at the Umana Yana, Kingston, Georgetown, where scores gathered to celebrate the joyous occasion.Among the distinguished gathering was Finance Minister Winston Jordan, who delivered the feature address and launched the Christmas Appeal, setting the Kettles boiling with the first donation of $50,000.
He also announced that the Government has approved a subvention of $10M for the Army’s Drug Rehabilitation Programme, for 2017.
The second contribution made to the pot was a cheque of an undisclosed amount, representing a personal donation from Minister Jordan.

Other distinguished guests who graced the occasion were members of the diplomatic corps, private sector representatives, Major-General (retired) Norman Mc Clean, leaders and soldiers of the Guyana Division of the Salvation Army, members of the Home League, the Guyana Police Force Steel Band and others.
However, while appreciative of the ambience of the newly-constructed facility, Minister Jordan noted the nominal turn out at the launch.
And he advised that in future, the launching of such an event attract more people, and hopefully a stronger presence, where more ‘prominent persons’ with their ‘prominent pockets’, can be gathered, rather than a select few.
“I hope we can have the support of everyone – diplomatic, private sector,” he said, noting that it was an honour to have been asked to launch the Kettles Appeal.
The minister also commended the transparency of the Salvation Army, a charitable organisation, noting one can see where the contribution is going and the works it is doing.
MOST RECOGNISABLE ORGANISATION
In fact, the minister, concurring with the former Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, credited the Salvation Army as the most recognisable and important charitable organisation in Guyana.
“It’s crucial objective is helping the fight against hunger and poverty, and members of this organisation work tirelessly to assist those persons who are in need and/or are suffering. Besides satisfying the individual needs of the individuals, the Salvation Army also provides spiritual and moral support to persons who are broken in spirit; help them become reformed and re-integrated into society,” Mr Jordan said, as he made reference to the Drug Rehabilitation Programme of the Salvation Army which has been in existence for some 20 years.
This programme, which is strongly supported by Government, reforms individuals who have fallen by the wayside, and returning them to their rightful places as productive citizens capable of making meaningful contributions to society.
Mr Jordan also noted that the Salvation Army must be lauded for the varied services it provides to communities.
These include feeding programmes, counselling programmes, spiritual programmes, home league, Missing Persons Bureau, senior citizens homes, poverty-relief programmes, distribution of Christmas hampers for the needy, crisis support, disaster relief programmes, prison ministry, and education and information programmes for young people, among others.
“As we prepare for the Christmas season, let us try to emulate the teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ who advocated peace and love to all mankind.”
He said that donations to the Salvation Army are a critical part of its survival, especially the monetary donations that are used to fund its myriad programmes and projects.
‘KEEP IT BOILING’
“I therefore appeal to you to keep these strategically paced [sic] red kettles boiling, boiling, boiling, until they boil over. Your contributions will help to raise the much-needed funds that will provide special needs for needy individuals and families and further for financing the aforementioned programme which are beneficial,” he assured.
This is the season of peace and goodwill, Mr Jordan said, noting that Government is committed to fulfilling its promise of a good life for all Guyanese.
“Our Government is committed to reducing poverty; meeting the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations; of providing adequate social protection for our most vulnerable citizens – and human resources.”

He said this commitment is being accomplished through significant monetary allocations to the economic and social sectors each year to reduce poverty.
“I take this opportunity to remind you that since assuming office some 18 months ago, this Government has increased substantially, wages and salaries, Old Age Pensions and Social Assistance, recognising that these are critical components of attaining the good life,” the minister said.
Mr. Nicholas Boyer, who spoke on behalf of Chairman of the Advisory Board, (his father) Mr Edward Boyer, praised the work of the Salvation Army globally, and said that the Guyana Division has been responding favourably and dedicatedly to humanitarian needs.
“Your presence here today and your contributions will help us to provide support for the Army’s work in Guyana: To the elderly, less fortunate children, sick and needy,” Boyer said.
And Divisional Commander, Major Emmerson Cumberbatch, who welcomed guests, declared the programme open and introduced members of the Advisory Board.
The programme was richly spiced with the lusty singing of carols; entertainment by Divisional Timbrelists; and symphonious renditions by the Police Steel Band and Divisional musicians.