Govt flat serves as rescue home for Pouderoyen fire victims  

― REO Ferreira-Dougall provides monetary assistance

―Reg. 3 admin gives food hampers

DPI, Guyana, Friday, March 15, 2019 

A family of 12 was brought relief and granted temporary stay, at a government owned flat, by the regional administration of Region 3, Essequibo Islands-West Demerara following a fire which devastated their home.

After learning of the disaster which took place at Lot 7 Phoenix Park, Pouderoyen family, Regional Executive Officer Jennifer Ferreira-Dougall visited the location and immediately activated the Region Three Disaster Response Team.

Recognising also that there were school-aged children affected, REO Ferreira-Dougall made a monetary donation to the family for the purpose of purchasing school items so that the children can return to school well equipped. The administration also donated food hampers to the family.

The government flat that is temporarily housing the displaced family

Regional Executive Officer Jennifer Ferreira Dougall [fourth from left)] making the presentation to Zonipetra Austin as her family looks on

According to the REO, Essequibo Islands-West Demerara Region is not fully equipped to deal with circumstances of this nature but given that people’s lives were affected all hands were brought on deck.

“We don’t have a budgeted line item to deal with such circumstances but because we are a unified family at the regional level and people’s lives were disrupted by the fire, we all teamed up and purchased groceries for the family. It could have happened to anyone and that is why we must show love and support to people affected by disasters,” Ferreira-Dougall remarked.

According to head of the household, Zonipetra Austin, the fire of unknown origin struck around 16:00hrs on March 13, destroying the two-flat home, leaving huge losses behind.

The family expressed heartfelt appreciation to the entire Regional Administration of the Essequibo Islands/West Demerara for the compassion and support shown to them during their time of difficulty. Appreciation was also extended to the many neighbours and friends who visited and provided resources to the family.

Persons who wish to assist this family can call Zonipetra Austin on telephone number 652-4003.

Story and Images: Ganesh Mahipaul