By Feona Morrison

FIRST Lady Arya Ali, on Thursday, inaugurated Phase III of her “Adopt-an-Orphanage” Initiative, which has helped to transform the lives of over 300 children thus far.
This new phase will see another nine orphanages being “adopted” by various local businesses.

The event, held at State House in Georgetown, also brought together wife of the Prime Minister, Mignon Bowen-Phillips; Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Guo Haiyan; caregivers, among others.
The initiative provides support and resources to orphanages, ensuring that the nation’s most vulnerable children have the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing and supportive environment.
The First Lady, known for her tireless advocacy for children’s welfare and education, delivered a passionate speech, during which she underscore the importance of collective responsibility in uplifting their lives.
“The life of a child without the competent embrace of family, without the assurance of a secure future, is a reality for many. But together, we are changing this narrative for stepping up as guiding stars for these young souls, offering them not just basic necessities, but also the love, support and opportunities they so richly deserve,” First Lady Ali said.

She related that sponsorship through the Adopt-an-Orphanage Initiative goes beyond financial support, adding: “We’re not just offering support, we’re inspiring dreams. We’re not just giving care, we’re sharing love.”
The First Lady expressed her gratitude to all the partners who have contributed to the programme’s achievements thus far, including the caregivers for their selfless service.
She emphasised the need for continued partnership and support, urging more organisations and individuals to come forward and join the cause.
Ambassador Haiyan commended the First Lady for implementing programmes to assist vulnerable groups. She said charitable programmes like these need support from the whole of society and people from every walk of life.
The diplomat shared that the Chinese Embassy is more than happy to assist in this regard.

The programme, according to Camille Lewis, a representative of the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre, is proof of the transformative power of love and compassion for communities.
“It is through your partnership that we can continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of these children and encourage them to break the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential.”
Bless the Children Home, St. John’s Basco Orphanage, Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage, Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage, Hope Children’s Home, Red Cross Convalescent Home, Joshua’s Children Home, Prabhu Sharan Orphanage and Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre are the nine orphanages that will benefit from the initiative’s third phase.

The Chinese Embassy, IB Construction, Sheriff Construction, Demerara Bank Limited, Comfort Sleep, Lucky Star, Premier Construction, and J’s Supermarket are among the sponsors.
First Lady Ali introduced the “Adopt-an-Orphanage” initiative in June 2021, inspired by a conversation with Guyanese-American rapper SAINt JHN.
The initiative aims to support orphanages across the country by alleviating their financial burdens and providing resources for children’s development.
Ali has underscored the importance of ensuring that orphaned children have access to basic necessities and opportunities for growth. Through the initiative, she hopes to nurture the talents and skills of these children while enriching their lives with extracurricular activities.