9 orphanages adopted for 1 year in 3rd phase of ‘Adopt an Orphanage’ initiative

Through First Lady Arya Ali’s “Adopt-an-Orphanage” initiative, sponsorship was secured for nine orphanages for the third consecutive year.
These are the Prabhu Sharan Orphanage, Red Cross Convalescent Home, Bless the Children Home, St. John’s Basco Orphanage, Shaheed’s Boy and Girls Orphanages, Hope Children’s Home, Joshua’s Children Home, and Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre.
These deals were made official at the launch of the third phase of the initiative on Thursday at State House, Main Street, Georgetown.

According to Mrs. Ali, the sponsorship is not limited to financial support for the nine homes.
“It is a demonstration of your commitment to making a difference, a fulfilment of your promise to stand by a child and support their dream of a better life, to celebrate their achievements, and to encourage them through their struggles. It is about building a bridge of hope and possibility.”

She added that the gathering is not just as individuals but as a community bound by compassion and the shared belief in the power of kindness.
“This journey continues here, with each one of you, as we open our hearts to these children who dream of a brighter tomorrow. These children, despite their hardships, carry within them a spark of hope—a hope that we now have the privilege to nurture”.
She recalled back in 2021 when the initiative was launched, the primary focus was to ensure that some of the overhead expenses of these homes were taken care of, so it would provide them with flexibility to improve other areas of the children’s welfare.”
“Today, because of your support we are offering medical services to them, inclusive of eye tests and free spectacles, and dental services; medical check-up, and even counseling services. We have also hosted several social activities including a movie night, a kite flying activity for easter, and a trip to the Suarez Brother Circus,” she told the sponsors and other stakeholders on Wednesday.

These activities and events, she added are not to improve their place of dwelling but to create homes.
“We are not just offering support; we are inspiring dreams. We are not just giving care; we are sharing love. Your sponsorship is a testament to our belief in these children’s potential and our dedication to their success.”
“As we continue on this journey, I want to urge you to look into your hearts and see the boundless capacity we have to bring change. Each contribution, each act of kindness, no matter how small, ripples out to create waves of hope and transformation. Together, we are building a future where every child in Guyana knows they are valued, cherished, and capable of achieving great things.”
However, the second phase of the initiative saw close to 300 children.
One of the main sponsors of this initiative is the Chinese Embassy in Guyana and its Ambassador Guo Haiyan have since encouraged other organisations to support this cause.
“Charitable programmes need assistance and support from the whole society, from people from all walks of life. The Chinese Embassy is happy to make one contribution to some kinds of programs although the contribution is limited.”
She pointed out that Guyana’s society can pay attention to orphans.
“I do hope that the whole society, people from all walks of life, can pay more attention to the orphans and protect their rights and interests to make sure that the orphans can grow up healthy, safely, and happily.”
Meanwhile, the other sponsors include Demerara Bank Limited (DDL), J.S. Supermarket, Sheriff Construction, Comfort Sleep, Lucky Star, Premier Construction, Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital, Optic Vision Care, Sheriff Hospital, Anthem McCall, Amazonia Mall, and the Mexican Embassy.