Nine orphanages are among the latest to be supported through First Lady Arya Ali’s ‘Adopt-an-Orphanage’ initiative, aimed at changing the lives of orphans by ensuring that they benefit from a future filled with opportunities.
To formalise the support, representatives of the orphanages signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with their sponsors during a ceremony held at State House on Thursday.
The orphanages will receive financial assistance while the children will get medical and other assistance.
The nine orphanages to benefit from the third phase of the initiative are: Prabhu Sharan Orphanage, Red Cross Convalescent Home, Bless the Children Home, St John’s Basco Orphanage, Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage, Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage, Hope Children’s Home, Joshua’s Children Home and Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre.
First Lady, Mrs Arya Ali’s (Photo: Office of the First Lady/ July 25, 2024)
The sponsors include the Chinese Embassy, Demerara Bank Limited, J’s Supermarket, Sheriff Construction, Comfort Sleep, Lucky Star, Premier Construction and IB Construction.
First Lady Ali introduced the ‘Adopt-an-Orphanage’ initiative back in 2021, having recognised the difficulties faced by these organisations.
The First Lady said, to date, the initiative has transformed the lives of almost 300 of the nation’s children.
“This journey continues here with each of you as we open our hearts to these children who dream of a brighter tomorrow.
“These children, despite of their hardships, carry within them a spark of hope, a hope that we now have the privilege to nurture,” she said.
To formalise the support, representatives of the orphanages signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with their sponsors during a ceremony held at State House on Thursday (Photo: Office of the First Lady/ July 25, 2024)
Aside from offering basic necessities, Mrs. Ali said the initiative is also geared at ensuring the orphans receive the love, support and opportunities they deserve.
“When I started this programme in 2021, the primary focus was to ensure that some of the overhead expenses of these homes are taken care of.
“Today, because of your support we are offering medical services to them inclusive of eye tests and free spectacles, dental services, medical checkups and even counselling services. Together we are believing a future where every child in Guyana knows their value, cherish and capable of achieving great things,” the First Lady said.
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Guyana, Guo Haiyan, pledged the embassy’s continued cooperation with the Office of the First Lady.
First Lady, Mrs Arya Ali distribute tokens to sponsors (Photo: Office of the First Lady/ July 25, 2024)
In fact, she said the embassy will also encourage Chinese companies here to assist.
“Although the contribution is limited, I believe action and assistance are important.
“I do hope that people of society can pay more attention to the orphans, protect their interest to make sure that they can grow healthy, safely and happily,” she said.
Meanwhile, representative of the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Center, Camille Lewis peoples’ “belief in the adoption of the Orphanage programme is a testament to the power of compassion and love for communities.”
“It is through your partnership that we can continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of these children and encourage them to break the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential,” Lewis added.
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