World Red Cross Day to be observed with Humanitarian Village

DPI, GUYANA, Monday, May 7, 2018

The Guyana Red Cross Society will be aiming to put smiles on the faces of many with a humanitarian village they will set up tomorrow at their Barrack Street, Eve Leary, Kingston address.

‘Smile’ also happens to be this year’s theme for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day which will be celebrated on May 8.

Health Officer of the Guyana Red Cross Society, Samesta Martin-Forde shared with the Department of Public Information (DPI) some of what the day will entail and the overall aim of the organisation.

“Tomorrow, the Guyana Red Cross will be having its humanitarian village, where we will display the different programmes that we offer. We will have the blood drive and a non-communicable disease aspect, also we will be helping people to understand that it takes time to have a healthy lifestyle. This is more than just teaching for us, it’s knowing that we’re equipping families with training that can further enhance their family’s lives and other people around them.”

The organisers will also encourage persons to eat, exercise and have healthy practices overall. They will also address issues such as mental health, encourage persons to have a brighter outlook on life and build self-esteem. There will also be a first aid booth where persons can learn to give emergency care to family members, friends, and even strangers.

With the intention to stick with the theme of ‘Smile’, Martin-Forde highlighted that “over the years, our programmes have brought lots of smiles, and that is what we seek to do; help persons to understand the importance of wearing a smile.”

Secretary-General of the Guyana Red Cross Society, Dorothy Fraser also noted the effort of the organisation and is hoping persons be present tomorrow in observance of the day.

“We have a number of activities all the time, so it’s really hard to focus on one thing specifically, but this year we’re going to do a series of things throughout the month. We do hope that people will come out not only to give blood but to look at the displays and ask questions on how to get involved in their communities and Red Cross in general, to really carry out a humanitarian spirit.”

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is also used to celebrate the Birthday of Red Cross founder, Henry Dunant. It also seeks to recognize the incredible contribution and achievements of the millions of volunteers and staff around the world who keep our commitment to humanity every day.

The history of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has been one of partnership. Both include individuals who are fueled by determination and passion to alleviate human suffering. The Guyana Red Cross Society encourages all to support the proceeding tomorrow.

 

By: Stephon Gabriel.