MOM hands over four homes to vulnerable residents in Region Nine

Four vulnerable residents of Awarewaunau Village, Region Nine, are now better positioned to enjoy safer and more comfortable living conditions following the handover of new homes by the Men on Mission (MOM) Initiative on Wednesday.

The handover, held as the initiative marks its fourth anniversary, reflects the people centred approach of the programme led by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to improving the lives of citizens through practical support and targeted interventions.

Among the beneficiaries are three senior citizens, Eunice Francis, 73, Mildred Bernard, 61, and Josephin Augusto, 79, along with 18-year-old Simone Griffith, who lives with a disability.

For Eunice Francis, the new home represents an important step towards greater security.

She experienced a period of vision loss two years ago, prompting the Village Council to request assistance with housing.

With support from a family member who took her to an eye specialist, she regained her sight and can now care for herself.

Mildred Bernard, a widow who lives alone, requires assistance with her daily needs. She has endured the loss of both her husband and son, who died in the forest, and continues to face challenges associated with her limited mental abilities.

At 79, Josephin Augusto also faces ongoing difficulties.

She has experienced health complications since undergoing surgery approximately 20 years ago and relies on her old age pension, seeking medical care whenever necessary.

Awarewaunau Village Toshao Roxanne Beck received the fourth home on behalf of 18-year-old Simone Griffith, who was unable to attend the ceremony, while Rupununi Miners Association Chairperson Romel McKenzie was recognised for his assistance with the home’s construction.

Minister of Natural Resources Vikram Bharrat joined the Men on Mission team for the handover, which forms part of the initiative’s wider efforts to reach vulnerable individuals and families across Guyana.

As it enters its fifth year, the initiative continues to mobilise support to address pressing social needs, with the four homes in Awarewaunau demonstrating how targeted assistance can help restore comfort, dignity and a greater sense of security to those who need it most. [DPI]