Lindeners continue to benefit from social support amid COVID-19
—Blossom Inc. providing support in Reg 10
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, April 30, 2020
As Guyanese join the rest of the world in sheltering at home to combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Linden Branch of Blossom Incorporated continues to provide social services in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Protection.
The Region 10 branch of the NGO is managed by Melissa Chapman and Owanna Skeete who are working remotely to provide the necessary support to clients.
Blossom Incorporated, staff Melissa Chapman (left) and Owanna Skeete (right)
“Even though the centre is closed, we are working from home to track clients’ cases. We speak to them weekly to learn how they’re coping with being at home. We also are available to speak to them whenever they feel the need to,” Chapman explained.
They also report to the office, when needed, to conduct forensic interviews for clients who have been sexually or physically abused.
Chapman and Skeete noted due to the stay-at-home measure victims of domestic abuse are more vulnerable during the pandemic.
They reminded that Linden residents in need of social services can contact Blossom Incorporated on their hotline number, 227-0979.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Social Protection’s Sexual Offenses and Domestic Violence Policy Unit has established a 24-hour hotline (640-1011) and safe space for victims of domestic violence.
In an earlier interview, Unit manager Akeila Doris told DPI that the safe shelter can accommodate victims and their children under the age of 14 years and counselling services are provided. The unit is also working with the police.