Men on Mission completes house for elderly Vigilance woman

Men on Mission on Friday handed over a newly constructed two-bedroom home at Vigilance to Doreen Helena Yansen, a 79-year-old mother of three.

Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, speaking at the handover ceremony stated, “This initiative, Men on Mission, is one that the President has given a lot of priority to because we recognize that men can play a very positive role in this society.” The Minister added that “Sometimes people think of men and think of the bad men do, we want to change that view of how people view some men, we believe men can do good, useful things for our society, Men on Mission is one such thing.”

Doreen, who is currently retired, had successfully petitioned for land in 1974, but she was unable to keep her title because of a number of obstacles. Over the years, Doreen prioritised her children’s needs and made sure they were comfortable, all the while trusting that one day she would have her own home. When she heard of the initiative  spearheaded by His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, she reached out for assistance by way of letter and was elated to hear that she was finally getting her own home.

Mr. Roger Rogers, an executive member of MOM and Chief Planning Officer at the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, clarified that MOM has an active committee that impartially analyses all applications. “By satisfying all criteria, Ms. Yansen was deemed justified to benefit from the support of MOM, which is why we are here today.” In addition, Rogers stated, “We (MOM) recognise the need and collectively agree that this contribution will make a significant difference to your circumstance and that of your family.”

Doreen is now the proud owner of a 20×30 single-story home, equipped with all essential utilities. She expressed her gratitude to MOM for their support stating, “I’m thanking God first for making this initiative possible, and God bless Mr. Ali and all the people who are a part of this initiative.”

Executives Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, Dr. Josh Khanhai and Dr. Sawan Jagnarain from MOM attended the occasion. Doreen was accompanied by her daughter, Deborah Yansen-Bamfield. The Men on Mission initiative will continue to foster a supportive environment for men. Through the vision of His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfan Ali, MOM-Built homes are part of a greater initiative to empower the vulnerable in our communities across Guyana through men’s combined efforts. [Men on Mission press release]