– diplomat also hosts thanksgiving for 100 senior citizens

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, has lauded the work done by the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre, noting that the initiatives being done around ‘Project Hope’ will create a ‘real home’ environment for the children.

The diplomat shared her remarks at a fundraising dinner and concert Friday night held by the Ruimveldt Children’s Home in collaboration with the Foundation Seven Music School at Parc Rayne, Rahaman’s Park, Houston, East Bank Demerara.

The Ruimveldt Children’s Home is located at 227 Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown.

The Ruimveldt Home has been opened since 2006 and provides 24-hour care for up to 20 vulnerable children.

“It’s quite an achievement and it speaks to the Guyanese value of taking care of each other and the less fortunate,” the ambassador said.

She said Project Hope plans to build a home for children– 11 years and younger –to cater for their unique needs as vulnerable children.

Ambassador Lynch said the new home will provide round-the-clock care for the children and referrals will come from the Childcare Protection Agency and the Ministry of Social Protection.

Children above age 12 will remain at the existing location, allowing them more privacy and space as they cope with the challenges of being teens and young adults.
The ambassador also praised the youths of the US Embassy’s Youth Action Network, who donated tens of hours of their time and talent to help the home.

“From monthly visits where they help with homework, to bake sales to raise money for projects, to Christmas parties, and dental clinics, these young Guyanese truly embody the spirit of community,” the envoy said.

Ambassador Lynch also recently hosted over 100 Guyanese senior citizens at her residence for a Thanksgiving luncheon, sponsored by the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana (AMCHAM Guyana).

She congratulated AMCHAM Guyana on its initiative to spread Thanksgiving cheer to the community and underscored the role of AMCHAM Guyana and the wider business community in engaging in social service initiatives for senior citizens as part of their corporate social responsibility.

President of AMCHAM Guyana, Zulfikar All, noted that the organisation was pleased to give back to Guyana’s senior citizens who have contributed immensely to its development.
“It is a joy to share the tradition with Guyana, whose people treat US diplomats not as foreigners but with open arms and a warm welcome. The first Thanksgiving celebrated the bounty of the fall harvest just as we celebrate the bounty of our friendships with the people of Guyana,” said the ambassador.