FOOD for the Poor (Guyana) Incorporated (FFP) has paid the fines and secured the release of 11 non-violent offenders — in time for them to spend the Christmas holidays with their families and friends — the charitable organization has said in a release.

The prisoners were incarcerated due to their inability to pay the required fines, even though the amounts were minimal.

On Thursday, 8th December, some of the prisoners were interviewed at the Georgetown Prisons by FFP Public Relations Manager Wayne Hamilton, who informed them of their release and admonished them to change their lives in a meaningful way.

On their release, the prisoners were treated at FFP’s office to a simple ceremony, which included a special lunch and words of encouragement, via telephone, from the President and CEO of Food for the Poor Incorporated in Florida, Robin Mahfood. They were also addressed by Chairman of FFP in Guyana, Paul Chan-A-Sue; CEO Kent Vincent; Director Sister Julie Matthews; Superintendent of Prisons Alstan Scott; Public Relations Manager Wayne Hamilton; Senior Projects Manager Andrea Benjamin; and Father Godfrey Veerasammy SJ, who said a special prayer for the inmates.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, food hampers that included loaves of bread, clothing, personal care items and Bibles were given to the inmates. Cash for assistance with transportation was also provided.

Twice a year — in the week of Christmas and during Easter’s Holy Week — the Food for the Poor Prison Ministry Programme releases inmates who have committed minor offences.