A local business, Japarts has put together 2,000 hampers for distribution to vulnerable citizens affected by the current restrictions implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19.
With assistance from the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) and the United States Embassy in Guyana, the company will be distributing the hampers in communities in Georgetown, Berbice and the Linden Highway.
Chief Executive Officer of Japarts, Terry Singh told the media that the hampers will be going to areas in Canje, Berbice, Tiger Bay in Georgetown and some communities on the Linden Highway where persons are not able to travel to Georgetown for food items.
He said the items which include rice, flour, peas, potatoes and others, cost $5M in total.
“We are going to contact the CDC (Civil Defence Commission) to ensure we don’t duplicate items…”
The CDC had started the distribution of hampers to less vulnerable communities but that has been suspended until further notice as the Government decided to look at a comprehensive package which can cater to everyone affected by the restriction on movement implemented to fight COVID-19.
Singh also called on fellow business owners to join the effort in helping the less fortunate people in this time of need.
Meanwhile, U.S Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah Ann Lynch who was at the company’s office Oronoque and Charlotte Street office to assist in the distribution, said “this is just a terrific effort…[Japarts] has demonstrated that there is a role for everyone to play including the private sector in their time of need.”
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) along with several other Non-Governmental Organisations and individuals have also been distributing hampers across the country to help those in need.
