THE Rotary Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC) on Friday handed over newly refurbished accommodations to the residents, trustees, and Board of Directors of the Uncle Eddie’s Home at its Tucville, Georgetown location.
In honour of its 40th Anniversary, the RCGC initiated a signature project aimed at improving the living conditions at Uncle Eddie’s senior citizens’ residence.

At a cost of $30 million, the project is intended to create a dignified and comfortable environment for the residents that is both safe and environmentally friendly, while also promoting their physical and mental well-being.
According to a media release by the RCGC, the Club aims to restore the Uncle Eddie’s Home to a sustainable state, allowing it to generate enough revenue for ongoing maintenance and care.

The Uncle Eddie’s Home was officially opened on February 26, 1975 by its visionary founder, overseas-based Guyanese Edward Holford, also known as ‘Uncle Eddie’, who passed away shortly after the opening.
The handover was conducted by current President of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central Jagdesh Haripershad, along with immediate Past President and Project Leader Peter Pompey, Past President Judy Semple-Bobb, and Sabita Liddell, who represented the Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud.

Additionally, Kory and Mrs. Diane Sellers, retired humanitarian missionaries with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), were also present. The President of Uncle Eddie’s Home, Yolanda James, was also on hand to officially accept the upgraded facility.
President Haripershad in his opening remarks said: “The Rotary theme for this year is ‘The Magic of Rotary,’ and I believe we can witness this magic today.” He emphasized that the project reflects their commitment to serving humanity and strengthening communities.

“This journey began under the leadership of then-President Peter Pompey, whose vision and dedication brought the idea of transforming this home from a dilapidated and unsafe environment into a space of safety and comfort for its residents,” Haripershad stated.
According to the release, Haripershad recognised Pompey’s essential role in the project, which was completed not only on schedule but also encompassed a broader scope of work than initially planned.

The president also acknowledged Past President Judy Semple-Bobb for her crucial efforts in securing funding for the project. “Judy prepared and submitted a detailed proposal to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, resulting in their generous approval of US$100,000 (equivalent to G$20M). Her commitment and dedication have been vital to our success, and we thank her.”

In addition to the G$20M in cash contributions from the LDS Church, an extra G$10M was invested in materials and workmanship by various donors, including Food for the Poor, Chung Global Inc., and the Ministry of Public Works, bringing the total project cost to G$30M.
Pompey also provided a brief overview of the project, detailing the journey from conceptualisation to the realisation of the now revitalized environment for the residents of the Uncle Eddie’s Home.

In expressing thanks to the sponsors of the project, he encouraged the Trustees and the Board of Directors of Uncle Eddie’s Home to continue improving the facilities while enhancing the quality of service for the residents.
Moreover, the project’s approved scope included: Upgrade of plumbing and bathroom facilities; upgrade of potable water system; installation of new storage cupboards; provide new kitchen utensils and equipment; new beds and bedding; purchase of waste disposal bins; purchase of motorized lawn mower; monthly maintenance of compound expanded project scope;

In addition, they also contributed to the painting of walls and ceiling of main block and south wing; installation of safety signage; repairs to administration office, front facing guttering and windows; new kitchen fixtures- two stoves, one freezer, one refrigerator, and one washing machine; replacement of bedroom fixtures [safety handrails, side cabinets, 10 beds with side rails]; replacement of front entrance door and sign.