THE Lions Club of Georgetown has donated tools and cleaning supplies to assist the rebuilding and clean-up efforts at Hope Children’s Home, nearly three weeks after a devastating fire destroyed the East Coast Demerara facility that had been home to 33 children.
The humanitarian organisation said the contribution is intended to support the recovery of the children’s home as it works to rebuild and restore a safe environment for the children displaced by the July 17 blaze.
During a recent visit to the facility, members of the Lions Club met with Hope Children’s Home founder and operator Kenneth Finlayson, who shared the history and mission of the institution, which was established in 2001 by the Enmore Church of Christ to provide shelter, care and support for vulnerable children.
The Club said it was pleased to provide the cleaning supplies and tools as part of its commitment to community service and humanitarian assistance.
It also pledged to continue supporting Hope Children’s Home as it rebuilds and resumes its mission of providing a safe, nurturing and caring environment for children in need.
The fire, which occurred on July 17, completely destroyed the building that housed the privately operated children’s home at Enmore, East Coast Demerara.
Despite the extensive damage, all 33 children were safely evacuated and no injuries or fatalities were reported.
Authorities said the children were attending Vacation Bible School (VBS) in the church building on the same compound when the fire broke out, reportedly in the boys’ dormitory. The absence of the children from the building at the time of the blaze, coupled with the swift response of caregivers and staff, ensured that everyone was removed from danger.
Following the incident, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security confirmed that all 33 children—15 girls and 18 boys—had been safely accounted for after being moved to a secure location on the property.
The ministry, through the Childcare and Protection Agency, subsequently relocated the children to the Mahaica Children’s Home and other state-care facilities, where they continue to receive care, protection and support while long-term arrangements are being made.
The Ministry has since reiterated that the safety and well-being of the children remain its highest priority and said it will continue to monitor the situation as recovery efforts progress.
The Lions Club of Georgetown said its latest donation reflects its mission of empowering volunteers to serve communities, address humanitarian needs and promote goodwill through meaningful service projects.
