IN a continued effort to improve the living conditions of Guyanese, the government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water, distributed building materials vouchers worth $250,000 to 37 homeowners in Laing Avenue on Monday.
This initiative is part of a $50 million project inspired by Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, aimed at assisting less fortunate families in renovating their homes.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its citizens.

“This initiative was made possible by our Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who has made a commitment to assist families who are less fortunate to fix their homes. Our aim is to distribute over 200 of these vouchers to the selected families as quickly as possible,” Minister Croal stated.
He also highlighted the broader mission of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) since regaining office in 2020, which focuses on continuous investment and development across the country.
“Right in Laing Avenue, we are upgrading the roads and drains, and we are also working to ensure that more of our young people in the area are equipped with the necessary skills so that they can be meaningfully employed,” Croal noted. He stressed the active involvement of ministers in various regions, listening to people’s concerns, and delivering solutions to improve their lives.
Additionally, the recipients of the vouchers received an extra $100,000 to cover labour costs. Minister Croal specified that Toolsie Persaud Ltd., Gafson’s Industries, and Cemax Procurement and Contracting Inc. are the locations where the vouchers can be redeemed for building supplies.
The Ministry of Housing and Water’s Facebook page reported that the voucher distribution exercise, held at St. Pius Primary School, has so far benefited 158 families. The Minister expressed satisfaction with the project’s rollout and encouraged homeowners to make the best use of the grant for its intended purpose. He also mentioned ongoing infrastructural developments in the area, aimed at enhancing the aesthetics of Laing Avenue and its surroundings.
In addition to home improvements, Minister Croal addressed the issue of families occupying lots without proper acquisition. He noted that the agency’s Community Development Department has completed an occupational survey in the area, with further steps to follow soon.
CEO Greaves, present at the distribution event, urged residents to utilise the grant effectively, emphasising that investing in their property adds value. The home improvement initiative alone represents an investment of approximately $41.6 million, which, combined with other housing projects, aims to uplift the living standards of Guyanese.
This proactive approach by the government, as evidenced by the home improvement vouchers and other infrastructure developments, reflects its dedication to fostering resilient and sustainable communities across the nation.