…Chairperson Yvonne Hinds says entity experiencing all-time low

THE Guyana Relief Council (GRC) on Sunday celebrated 24 years of service to those affected by man-made or natural disasters at its annual luncheon hosted at the Pegasus Hotel.

In welcoming the gathering, GRC Chairperson Yvonne Hinds said that the gathering each year does more than raise funds. It also raises awareness about the needs of the less fortunate in society.

She noted that the past year was a very challenging period for the GRC to raise funds for its cause.

However, though experiencing an “all-time low,” the council was able to assist 49 persons who lost their homes to fire and 37 through monthly welfare assistance.
“We are grateful to those who have supported our work by donation of cash or kind. Please continue to give generously and offer to volunteer your services when you can,” she urged.
Hinds reminded the audience that “disasters do not discriminate”; but Guyana must remain thankful that it is spared many of these tribulations, even as it has its own obligation to assist where it can.

“We must be vigilant and alert to the effects of climate change and each must do his or her part to save the world…be thankful for the hot sun, pouring rain, gold, diamonds, bauxite, timber, rice, sugar and now oil. Don’t worry about the man-made, those too will pass in time and Guyana will be a country for which we all long. A nation of one people sharing a common destiny,” she said.

Meanwhile, feature remarks came from Consultant to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Elisabeth Harper, who began by establishing that the nature of life is that people of need will always be among us.

As such, she stated that although it can be challenging to know how to respond, society must not lose sight of the essence of giving, caring and sharing.
“It takes great determination, dedication, tenacity, staying power and, above all, a commitment to the vision — that is the motivating factor. The Guyana Relief Council is driven by the spirit to do good despite whatever challenges it might face as its strives to achieve its goals,” Harper said.

She further commended Hinds on her commitment and perseverance and concurred that there is need for groups such as the GRC to continue to support persons affected by disasters.

“The Guyana Relief Council stands as an example of volunteerism that reaches out to all 10 regions of our country without partiality and without discrimination,” she said, adding:
“It is my hope that the Guyana Relief Council will continue to receive support on a sustained basis to carry out its short-term activities of providing shelter or sustenance, as well as its long-term activities of helping people to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives.”

At the event there was a Dutch auction of several items, the proceeds of which will go towards the aid of those affected by natural or man-made disasters.
Meanwhile, awards were presented to three individuals or groups which have greatly supported the council over the years.