The Humanitarian Mission of the New Jersey Arya Samaj in collaboration with Food for the Poor has launched a youth empowerment programme in Region Six to provide skills in various technical capacities.

At the launching of the group’s enhancement programme at the Arya Samaj Mandir in Reliance, Region Six, President of the Mission Pandit Suresh Sugrim disclosed to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony that his group was keen in working closely with the ministry, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

According to Pandit Sugrim, the mission spent millions of dollars last year on humanitarian work but this time its emphasis is on enhancement.

“Instead of giving you the fish we will be teaching you how to catch the fish, provided that you are willing to learn,” Pandit Sugrim is quoted by GINA as saying.

The mission has acquired a sewing machine to support its sewing classes and is also making provisions for the establishment of a cooking class at the same venue.

During the launching, a sewing machine and a stove were handed over to the President of the Reliance Arya Samaj Mandir. A stove was also presented to a women’s organisation which looks after the affairs of abused women in Berbice. Bicycles were also presented to about three youths who are from poor families.

Minister Anthony commended the religious body for promoting humanitarian values through skills training and other means. He also noted that this can be a lesson for other religious bodies in their bid to make a difference in society.

The mission recently launched a “laugh till you belly bus” show, its first fund raising venture at Albion to garner funds locally which will be put back into the community.

The mission also handed over a house to the Latchman family who lost their home which was in a derelict condition.