President Irfaan Ali on Friday pledged to implement more programmes and initiatives to ensure elderly people have more access to medical and social welfare services.
He made the pledge at the annual Christmas luncheon hosted by the Dharm Shala Home of Benevolence for All Races at its King Edward Street, Albouystown complex.
“I want to assure you that in the coming years, we will be working on specific programmes, specific initiatives, to ensure that facilities like these are not only supported, but that the residents are also supported in key and important areas of life like healthcare,” Ali was quoted as saying at the Luncheon by the Department of Public Information (DPI).
“These are things that you can expect: more social support, social programmes, [and] welfare programmes that are important,” he added.
Ali, the report noted, made a monetary donation to the Home to help it to continue its service. Additionally, Komal Singh, Managing Director of GAICO Construction and General Services Incorporated, also presented a cheque to the Home.
Two weeks ago, the Dharm Shala Home issued its annual appeal to continue the day to day operations of feeding, housing and clothing those who seek assistance with no charge attached.
The iconic charitable institution will be observing its 100th anniversary in April, 2021 and in a statement it thanked those who have contributed foodstuff during the very difficult period where the COVID-19 pandemic has raged.
It said, however, that financial assistance is needed not only for the welfare of the residents but day-to-day management, such as payment of stipends to staff and payments of bills, among many other expenses. The Dharm Shala not only serves the homeless but others who would come through its gates at Albouystown, and also at its Fort Canje, Berbice branch.
The day-to-day expenses of these institutions are exorbitant. There are four buildings of worship – two Anglican Chapels and two Hindu Temples all dedicated, dating back to 1921 by the late Pandit Ramsaroop Maharaj then Harry S Ramsaroop Maharaj in 1966 and now his children.
Donations can be sent to the Treasurer/Secretary, 140 King Edward Street, Albouystown. A receipt will be issued for all donations received.
The DPI report said government has made several steps to ease the burdens of the elderly. These include the exemption for pensioners from paying for the consumption of water with the passage of the Emergency Budget 2020.
Additionally, it said, old age pension will be increased to $25,000 per month effective January 1, 2021. The seniors currently receive $20,500 per month.
