Regs. 7 & 10 benefit from CDC hamper distribution
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, April 8, 2020
Communities in Cuyuniz-Mazaruni (Region 7) and Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice (10) were on the Civil Defence Commission’s stop on Wednesday in its nationwide distribution of relief hampers.
The exercise is part of the CDC’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of measures implemented to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.
Heading the exercise in Region 10 was Senior Response Officer Captain Salim October. The CDC official stated that the commission was aware that every citizen was affected by the virus’s presence in Guyana.
“So economic activity has slowed or would have halted in a number of regards, and so this distribution exercise is to provide temporary relief in terms of providing food-related items to vulnerable persons so they have food security during this time.”
The CDC, which is the agency in charge of the National Emergency Operations Centre, has indicated that priority will be placed on vulnerable communities.
Captain October explained that those considered vulnerable are persons who are “a bit economically depressed, have very limited opportunity for income at this time, and single parents who cannot depend on their usual source of income.”
The NEOC was activated on March 31 to ensure the highest level of collaboration among all stakeholders, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, to enhance preparation, and strengthen the local response to the global pandemic.
The CDC is also committed to ensuring that every household receives supplies.
According to Captain October, the distribution exercise is a “phased approach” as supplies are not readily available to undertake a “blanket” exercise countrywide.
The Commission is welcoming assistance and donations from companies or individuals willing to join the cause. Donations can be made in the form of food supplies, personal care and sanitation supplies, and financing.
Supplies can be delivered to the CDC’s headquarters, Thomas Road, Thomas Lands or cash or cheque deposits can be made to the Commission’s Republic Bank account number 962356519938.
Food and hygiene supplies can be dropped off at the Thomas Lands location daily between 09:00 hours and 15:00hours.
Meanwhile, as the government ramps up efforts to minimise the number of persons infected with COVID-19, Guyanese must do their part by practising social and physical distancing and adhere to the advisories issued by the Ministry of Public Health.