AS we continue to advance our goal of promoting positive family values, the First Lady’s Foundation recently completed and handed over three projects on the East Coast of Demerara. These are:
1.     Construction of a two bedroom house for Buxton resident, Mr. Edmund Forde;
2.     Rehabilitation of staircase and roof for Enterprise resident, Mr. Rohit Baichu; and
3.     Rehabilitation of staircases for Enterprise resident, Mrs. Sursattie Harrichand.

Mr. Forde is 94, and in 2013, First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar was invited to his 93rd birthday celebration at his residence. Recognising the tough conditions under which this senior citizen was living, Mrs. Ramotar

submitted a proposal to the eight-member committee that is responsible for overseeing projects undertaken by the Foundation. This proposal was granted favourable consideration and plans were finalised for the construction of a 25 by 30 feet house on land owned by Mr. Forde. This house consists of two bedrooms, a bathroom, living room and kitchen. All electrical works were sponsored and completed by Mr. Gordon Saul.
In a similar manner and within the confines of its available resources, the foundation completed repairs to the houses of Mr. Rohit Baichu and Mrs. Sursattie Harrichand, both of Enterprise, East Coast Demerara.

Fifty-two year old Mr. Baichu lost both of his legs due to complications relating to diabetes. This has significantly curtailed the movements of this once vibrant fisherman to the extent that he requires assistance to move up and down the stairs of his elevated house. Recognising the danger that the steps pose to his son lifting him from upstairs to downstairs and vice versa, the foundation intervened and renovated the staircase. The roof of Mr. Baichu’s house was also renovated. Expressing his gratitude to the Foundation, Mr. Baichu indicated that he could now be easily assisted to his wheel chair, which provides for his means of mobility at home and around the community.
Mrs. Harrichand, suffered a stroke some six years ago and this has placed restrictions on her mobility. Both staircases to her home at Enterprise were in dire need of repairs and posed a danger to her and family members, especially at times when they needed to take her for medical treatment and therapy. With assistance from the Foundation, new staircases were installed for the benefit of this family.
In 2014, the foundation continues it work programme, which includes reaching out and providing support to vulnerable individuals and groups; the on-going literacy programme (CXC classes, computer classes and library facilities); the kitchen garden project, and the building of core homes of housing facilities for vulnerable families.

(GINA)