The President/CEO of Food for the Poor Inc. – Mr. Edward Raine and an Executive Team from Florida USA, recently visited Guyana. The purpose of their visit was to evaluate and assess the needs of the poor within communities, meet with community leaders and In Country Partners, and assist FFTP Guyana Inc. in seeking new ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its mission to the poor of Guyana.
Food for the Poor (Guyana) Inc. (FFTP) has been committed to the development of the poor of Guyana and all Guyanese. At present, greater focus is being placed on the socio-economic development of the poor within hinterland communities.
The Team visited several communities in Region 1; Mabaruma, Hosororo, Imbotero, White Water, and Yarakita, and met with Regional Chairman Mr. Bretnol Ashley, and Regional Executive Officer Mr. Tara Bissessar. Mr. Raine discussed the new vision of FFTP Inc. which places greater emphasis on sustainable development works, the transformation of communities and income generation for the needy.
Mr. Raine emphasized that one of the areas to be addressed is multidimensional poverty; it includes health, education, and quality of life. Food for the Poor is concerned about development and transformation. The challenges the Region experiences must therefore be understood so a greater impact could be made.
Mr. Raine also noted that Food for the Poor is a catalyst and it is necessary to have stakeholder engagements. He emphasized the need for partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector so that the work of FFTP and other organizations will complement each other and create greater benefits for the region.
The team also visited the migrant community in Yarakita and engaged with the community leaders to understand their needs and way of life. This would ensure that community projects could be tailored specifically for the migrant community.
A visit and donations of over 25 birthing kits and diaper rash ointments were also made to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Receiving on behalf of the medical facility were Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, and acting Chief Executive Officer Robbie Rambarran.
Director of Procurement and Fulfilment Food for The Poor FL Inc, Javier Ramirez at the handing over ceremony related that he was happy to collaborate with GPHC in ensuring that Guyanese receive the best healthcare.
Dr Anthony thanked Ramirez while adding that he is extremely grateful for the recent input and partnership and also values the various contributions over the past years.
CEO Rambarran also endorsed the sentiments and expressed his appreciation to Food For The Poor for their continuous support to the GPHC whether by donating, medical equipment, medical and lab supplies, or tokens.
Other areas visited were several women-owned and operated businesses in Region # 5 (Mahaica – Berbice), which benefitted from FFTP’s Rural Sustainable Development Projects. The projects were implemented to provide resources for the recipients to boost their livelihoods.
Over the years the projects have been beneficial and the recipients have greatly improved their economic status and promoted food security.
Visits were also made to nursery and primary schools in Region 6 that are a part of the Community Partner Program of FFTP (Guy) Inc.
The Team spent some time at the Port Mourant Health Centre and Hospital where FFTP (Guy) Inc. has played a pivotal role by providing medical supplies and equipment via its Outreach Program to Regional Hospitals and Community Health Centers. The support provided through this partnership has helped to boost the capacity of the Hospital and Health Centre to meet the needs of families in the area.
The National Psychiatric Hospital was also visited and FFTP (Guy) Inc has committed to working closely with the institution to ensure that the essential needs of the Hospital, patients, and staff are met.
FFTP (Guy) Inc. continues to play a vital role in the transformation of communities and the lives of disadvantaged families, and in the overall development of Guyana.
