RIVERVIEW and Yarrowdam residents in Ruimveldt, Georgetown, were the focal points of a recent community engagement initiative by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud who spearheaded the effort aimed at directly addressing the concerns of residents and providing crucial information on available services.

The initiative, which saw a remarkable turnout from Riverview residents, showcased the government’s commitment to actively engage with communities.

Minister Persaud, along with a dedicated team from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security delved into various topics including access to free skills training, pension, public assistance, assistive aids, domestic violence, gender affairs, difficult circumstances, and trafficking in persons.

Accompanying Minister Persaud were members from key divisions within the Ministry, underscoring the comprehensive approach taken to address community needs. The presence of divisions such as the Gender Affairs Bureau, Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute, Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit, and Childcare and Protection Agency highlighted the government’s intent to provide holistic support.

During her address, Minister Persaud reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to serving the people and outlined initiatives slated for inclusion in the 2024 Budget. The emphasis was placed on empowering individuals through education, skills training, and support services to foster inclusive growth and development.

Following the successful engagement in Riverview, Minister Persaud and her team proceeded to Yarrowdam, where they conducted a door-to-door visitation campaign. This approach allowed for a personalised assessment of the unique needs and aspirations of Yarrowdam residents, ensuring a targeted approach to addressing community challenges.

The visitations facilitated meaningful interactions, providing valuable insights into the specific issues facing the community. By engaging directly with residents in their homes, the Ministry aims to ensure that every voice is heard in the development process, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

Minister Persaud expressed gratitude to the residents of Riverview and Yarrowdam for their active participation and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to addressing their needs. Residents, including Amanda Walters, expressed satisfaction with the initiative, noting its timeliness and importance in addressing community concerns.

Pensioners also commended the Ministry for introducing new methods for pension collection and providing free assistive aids to persons living with disabilities, highlighting the tangible impact of the government’s efforts.