THE Government of Guyana is moving to establish regional units under the HEART initiative to provide sustained and targetted support to families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud has said.
Dr Persaud, during an episode of the ‘Starting Point’ podcast, stated that the initiative is being built out across the country, with each regional unit expected to comprise social workers, therapists, psychologists, religious representatives and personnel responsible for coordinating logistical support.
The HEART initiative, Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience and Trust, was launched by President, Dr Irfaan Ali following the July 18 tragedy, as part of the government’s commitment to provide long-term support to survivors and families of those who died.
According to Persaud, the initiative is designed as a comprehensive support mechanism, incorporating spiritual, psychosocial, legal, and logistical components.
“We are still building it out, but we have started a process where every region will have a unit comprising of [sic] a social worker, therapist, psychologist,” Persaud said.
She explained that religious representatives from different faiths would also form part of the teams, while logistical personnel would assess and respond to immediate practical needs.
Those needs could include assistance with transportation, food, and other incidentals, she said, stressing that such support should not be confused with compensation.
“We are not dealing with compensation. We are dealing with what is needed right now,” Dr Persaud said.
She noted that affected families have different circumstances and needs, including expenses associated with memorials and other immediate obligations. These are being assessed on a case-by-case basis, she said.
Dr Persaud also highlighted the particular needs of families who have lost breadwinners, noting that the government must ensure that children and parents receive the necessary support.
She said the Office of the First Lady will have direct responsibility for matters concerning children and their parents, while the legal component of the initiative is being handled separately under the leadership of Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall.
Dr Persaud described the initiative as a combination of professional skills and support aimed at helping families navigate the practical consequences of the tragedy.
However, she acknowledged that no amount of assistance could replace the loved ones lost.
“The presence is what is missed the most,” she said, noting that while government can address practical needs, the emotional void left by the tragedy cannot be filled.
Persaud said the initiative remains a government-led effort crafted under the direction of President Ali, with a dedicated team working continuously to ensure that affected families receive assistance.
She also welcomed support from the private sector and others willing to contribute to the ongoing response.
