By Gabriella Chapman
MISS World Guyana 2020 candidates have distributed packages to the homeless, filled with items that will protect them against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the presence of the virus in Guyana, the government has implemented several measures to safeguard citizens, including getting them to ‘stay home’.

These measures, however, do not cater to those who are without homes and families.
As such, the group of young women have made it part of their H2HO (Hobby2HelpOthers) project, to assist the men and women on the streets of Georgetown.

The package that was given to each person included a face mask, hand sanitizer, soap, vitamins and water.

The candidates told Guyana Chronicle that the experience was heart-warming to give back to society.

Sherzana Munilall said, “we drove around town and we delivered the items to the homeless persons and that experience was really nice. Majority of them were grateful and we even showed them how to put on the mask. We advised them on the vitamins in the bags and we gave them the water and explained the importance of using precautions for COVID-19.”
She said Overland Covid-19 Counter Unit donated everything they needed for the project, including extra protective gears to keep them safe as they help others.

Another candidate, Rae Shauna Jordan, said she was disappointed at the response they got from persons when they heard who the project was catering for.

“I was telling persons that it is for the homeless; they were rather upset and hurled insults. Persons who were able to afford and access the resources were upset that the homeless were being catered for. I was surprised and upset by this; heartbroken even. But I found comfort and was overwhelmed with emotions with the amount of support we turned out getting from our sponsor. When this virus reached Guyana my thoughts went to those who weren’t in a position to help themselves and/or family. I just wanted to help. If it means that I have to go out everyday to help one person or family, so be it. My main aim in life is to help and make sure people are taken care of,” Jordan said.

Meanwhile, Celicia Campbell said she was a bit scared at first, at the idea of going outside and risking their lives to help others.
However, she said it was all worth it.

“I would say that the experience was great. We were outside for a reason and as a team. It feels great to help and bring smiles to the faces of those who are homeless. Our project definitely made them feel included,” she said.

The H2HO project comprises of several charitable initiatives. The next initiative is slated for next Saturday, where a next team of candidates will be distributing food hampers to needy families.