PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali’s initiative, Men on Mission (MOM), continues to make a significant impact in Region Six and across the country. Last weekend, members of the initiative presented keys to new houses to two families on the Corentyne, significantly improving their living conditions and transforming their lives.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, officiated the handover at Number 60 Village and Port Mourant, Corentyne, on Saturday. He remarked, “Today, we see that Men on Mission is exceeding its original mandate, which is commendable. The initiative has been reaching out to prisons, working on reforming and reintegrating prisoners into society—an essential endeavor. They are also focusing on underprivileged youth in communities, particularly in areas plagued by high delinquency rates, helping them find their paths, whether in technical or academic fields.”

Bharrat emphasized the tremendous growth of the MOM initiative over the years and praised its contributors for their outstanding contributions.

Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, the National Coordinator of MOM, explained that the initiative, originally conceptualized to support vulnerable men and boys in communities, has evolved. As President Ali engaged with citizens across Guyana, he identified the need for assistance in providing housing. Hence, the housing assistance program was introduced, resulting in the handover of over 54 homes in 2024, with plans for an additional 50 homes in 2025.

Murli added that MOM has also been providing materials to help vulnerable individuals complete or extend their homes. “We have built homes in Regions 10, 9, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, and 2, while providing materials in Regions 1 and 8. Specifically, we have over 40 requests for assistance in Region 1,” he noted. He highlighted that MOM collaborates with the private sector to support vulnerable populations and has established youth empowerment programs in Regions 4, 9, and 6.

One of the recipients, 75-year-old Diwanti Sirpat from Number 60 Village, has faced numerous hardships. Living in a deteriorating house with a leaking roof, she eventually sought shelter with her daughter. After the loss of her husband a decade ago and the passing of two of her children, including one by suicide, Sirpat remained resilient. After receiving her new house, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to the MOM initiative, which has drastically improved her living situation.

The second recipient, 62-year-old Brijwanti Mangru from Port Mourant, is a single mother and grandmother who has faced health challenges that prevented her from continuing her work as a domestic worker. Living temporarily with her son-in-law became untenable after his mother moved in, prompting her to seek a new home. Overwhelmed with emotion upon receiving her house, Mangru thanked the MOM for their unexpected support, which she never anticipated.

Both women shared how their new homes would significantly enhance their daily lives. They expressed deep appreciation for President Ali’s support, emphasizing that the assistance provided was not only appreciated but crucial for their well-being. The MOM initiative has been a vital lifeline, relieving substantial stress and uncertainty and offering them newfound security and relief in their lives.