AS the Christmas season nears, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is going the extra mile to put smiles on the faces of children who have been faced with adversity. The “Wish Upon A Star” initiative was conceptualised by subject Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, with the intention of granting the wishes of disadvantaged children across the country. “We want to reach out to children that are terminally ill; children who suffer from disabilities; children who lost their parents, children who suffer from psychological trauma, children who never had the opportunity to enjoy something they need or really wish for– that one gift that would make them incredibly happy,” Minister Persaud said as she outlined the criteria.

From Monday, December 14, 2020, the ministry said that it will be placing a ‘Wish Upon A Star’ mailbox at its three locations in Georgetown, and at its Probation offices in Regions Two, Three, Five, Six, Nine and 10. In an effort to fulfil the requests made by the children, the ministry will be engaging a number of companies and entities to make the children’s wishes become reality. Children between the ages of four and 15 are encouraged to write a letter explaining what he or she needs this Christmas, and drop it in one of the many boxes. “Our wish is to make a child very happy during this festive season, by making their wishes come true. Children look forward to this time of the year,” Minster Persaud added.  The deadline for handwritten letters, which must include contact information and home address, is Monday, December 21, 2020 at 12 noon.