President Ali donates $1M to Fallen Heroes Foundation

…spreads Christmas cheer to orphans

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday presented a cheque to the Fallen Heroes Foundation during their annual remembrance ceremony, to the tune of $1 million.

At the Police Officers’ Mess Hall, Eve Leary, the Head of State made the contribution as he empathised with the families of those who served Guyana. During the presentation, the funds were handed over to eight families as part of the annual activity.

While the President acknowledged that no amount of platitudes and expressions of gratitude would be enough, he announced that the Government will do its best to ensure that the educational needs of the children of fallen heroes are taken care of. There are currently 18 children from the families of fallen heroes. He pledged to provide any assistance needed for examinations or through university.
“It is always going to be a painful exercise reflecting on those Guyanese who gave the ultimate in service to their country, which is their life. There is nothing that we can do or say that will replace that ultimate sacrifice, the only thing we can do is in faith and through prayers to ask that they inherit a greater and larger life for the sacrifice they made on this earthly journey,” he shared.
He added that they represent the honour and dignity of the uniform they wear to fulfil their oath of office. More importantly, he said their families are aware of the dangers and still support their efforts.

“When these sacrifices are made it is not only for the officer that leaves home, it is for the families who share their love, it is for the mother, the wife, the children, the grandparents who share their loved ones with the rest of society and the country in service. In my estimation, you too are part of the heroic effort, you too should be celebrated because you too as a family gave to the country,” the President told the gathering.
The Head of State also used the opportunity to recognise the members of the foundation for their efforts in ensuring that the families of those that gave their lives in sacrifice for the country are taken care of and that the memories of the heroes are honoured.
“For this, I must say you are doing these families and your country the greatest of service and I thank you very much. I want to assure this group that you can count on me to work closely with you, you can count on me to support you and the families.”
Commissioner of Police, Nigel Hoppie also acknowledged that the Force in collaboration with the Cops and Faith Community Network in November of 2015 established the foundation that will forever benefit the families of ranks who would have died in the line of duty.
The Foundation is the brainchild of former Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud. When it was launched, it was the first of its kind in the Caribbean.

Holiday cheer
President Ali continued spreading the holiday spirit and cheer on Wednesday, with a special celebration for children from orphanages at State House.
The children were treated to toys, carolling and other Christmas items. Those who were part of the festivities included the Sophia Care Centre, Red Cross Convalescent Home, Mahaica Children’s Home, St Ann’s Girls Orphanage and Joshua’s Children Home.
Speaking to the youths, the Head of State encouraged them to set goals and aspire for a good life, regardless of their circumstances. He reminded that children are the future of the country.
“You are indeed the future of our country. I also want all of you to know that regardless of where we grow up, which region we are form, regardless of our circumstances, we must all aspire for the greatest of things. You must aspire for every aspect of life. Do not put limitations to your aspirations. Think big, work hard and set yourself goals.”
Dr Ali said the intention was also to provide an experience at State House for the children as part of the activities. He reminded that they have a brilliant future ahead.
“I want you to know that for the children of Guyana, State House and the facilities here are open to all the children. I wanted you to come and be able to sit in the facilities of State House…I remember when I was a child, my friends and I would always pass important buildings in Georgetown, whether it was State House or the Ministries. We would all turn to each other and wish if we had the opportunity to go beyond the gates and experience what it is like. Part of being President in Guyana is being able to give children this opportunity.”
He also lauded the efforts made by caregivers at these institutions, in creating a safe environment for the vulnerable. This, the President said, often goes unnoticed.
“Sometimes you would believe as… feel as if you’re not even recognised for the work you do. I want to assure you that your service is recognised even at the highest level and your reward is at a higher level,” the Head of State told the guardians.
Meanwhile, some 22 tablets were donated to the senior secondary students, while another three was given to each home for educational purposes. The Guyana Police Force would have also made some contributions towards this worthy cause.