FOOD for the Poor (FFP) Guyana literally brought tears of joy to the eyes of many residents of The Palms, Brickdam, Georgetown, when they hosted their annual Christmas party on Friday.Hosted for the 204-strong geriatric population, it was a warm way of saying thanks to those who have served communities and country at large, in varying capacities in their active years.

And for the seniors, it was a kind of family reunion for many who have come to be like family over the years, but do not regularly meet in any social setting.
The party, which coincides with Food-for-the-Poor’s Silver Jubilee, (25th anniversary), was held in the chapel, where most of the able-bodied and others in wheelchairs gathered, greeted and had lively exchanges with each other.
The highlight of the programme was the serving of sumptuous lunches to the seniors who were deeply appreciative and apart from his staff, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kent Vincent experienced the novelty of assisting in serving meals.
The programme began with prayers, soft, serenading steelpan music and the nostalgic singing of carols to the delight of all present. As a token of appreciation, the seniors were each presented with a gift containing prized personal effects.
But even though some were bedridden and could not be taken across to the chapel, they were not altogether isolated, nor were they denied the ‘Joy of Christmas’ on that occasion, since their meals and gifts were presented to them in bed.
The welcome and brief remarks were done by Vincent, who said it was a pleasure to be with them once again.

He extended Christmas greetings to the seniors gathered, and outlined the motive behind the hosting of the parties.
Commenting on FFP’s association with The Palms, he said the organisation has reached out to the Palms, making donations of furniture, toiletries and detergents for cleaning and any other items that could be of use to them.
Meanwhile, FFP Chairman Malcolm Chan-a-Sue, who was unavoidably absent, sent his regards and best wishes to the seniors.
Other similar activities in which FFP is engaged within the communities in which they work are: Parties for Angels of Hope, in which they will be taking about 12 groups on outings to Berbice and holding Christmas parties for them.

Also in the new year, FFP will hold parties for children in the areas where they serve, as well as host a party for their staff to show their appreciation for the work they do.
“Our staff give … they work beyond the normal call of duty and so we want to acknowledge this,” Vincent said.
These are but a few of the many activities Food for the Poor has planned and is working feverishly towards bring joy and excitement to persons with whom they interact.