SIXTY residents of Laing Avenue, West Ruimveldt, on Monday received cash vouchers for $250,000 as part of a commitment made by Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and other government officials in November last year.

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal briefly noted that as a government, they have listened, analysed and responded by ensuring that policies and programmes are in place to enhance Guyana’s housing sector.

Minister Croal explained that the mandate of the ministry and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), goes beyond what is heard about the allocations of house lots.

“Moving forward too, you will see us engaging in a number of programmes or activities that are geared towards ensuring that all our citizens live a comfortable life,” he said.

Under the Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP), there are subsidies being provided. However, according to Minister Croal, these are confined to the boundaries of Parfaite Harmonie in Region Three, Grove/Diamond on the East Bank, and up to Vigilance on the East Coast of Demerara.

Some $15 million in materials for house repairs are available to those who qualify.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the CH&PA, Sherwayne Greaves, remarked that the 60 beneficiaries represent the first batch of persons to receive the cash voucher.

He stated that at the ministry and the CH&PA, officials continue to work to make life better for Guyanese.

Three residents who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle expressed their gratitude to the government.

Norma Lashley highlighted the goodness and support being provided. To this, Raphael Williams added, “I’m just extremely happy for this gesture. It’s very helpful, and there’s no more words to express.”

Carlata Peteirs noted that she is happy that the leaders have put such an initiative in place to enhance the lives of many.

This, she said, is very good because it will help persons who have children to be in a more comfortable environment.

“I believe it was a very good initiative and I’m happy that this has actually been looked at and followed up speedily,” she added.

During a visit to the community in November, Jagdeo made a commitment to residents that some funding would be put aside for house repairs / modifications.

That task was given to the Ministry of Housing and Water and its sub-agency, the CH&PA.

Dr. Jagdeo had said: “We have set aside $50 million for the Home Improvement Programme. So, we’re here to fulfil that promise,”

Approximately 250 Laing Avenue families are expected to benefit from this programme.