MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, recently led a comprehensive outreach at Good Hope Secondary School, East Coast Demerara, bringing vital services and guidance directly to the residents of the community.
Accompanied by a team from various departments within the ministry, including the Difficult Circumstances Unit, Childcare Protection Agency, Family Enhancement and Services Section, and Domestic Violence Unit, Minister Persaud addressed a range of concerns and provided assistance to those in need.

The outreach aimed to connect residents with critical services offered by the ministry, including pension support and public assistance. Minister Persaud highlighted the administration’s success in significantly expanding the number of beneficiaries under these programs since taking office.
“We have almost tripled the number of pensioners and individuals receiving permanent disability benefits and public assistance,” she noted, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting the vulnerable.
During the session, Minister Persaud clarified the process for applying for assistance, stressing that no officer is authorised to reject an application. “Only the Local Board of Guardians has the authority to refuse or withhold assistance,” she explained.
However, she cautioned that resources are finite, and not everyone may qualify for benefits due to budget constraints.

Addressing the youth in attendance, Minister Persaud encouraged them to take advantage of the training programs available through the ministry. She emphasised that public assistance should be viewed as a temporary support mechanism, with a maximum duration of two years and a minimum of six months. “The goal is to equip you with the skills needed to become self-sufficient and gain employment,” she urged, suggesting that young people consider learning trades such as garment construction or even starting small businesses with others.
Residents at the outreach not only had the chance to meet with Minister Persaud and her team but also learned about the various services available through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. These services include support for victims of trafficking, domestic violence, and gender-based violence, as well as assistance for children, persons with disabilities, and family enhancement programs.

For those interested in knowing where the Ministry will be heading next, updates are available on the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Facebook page.