President David Granger gave the first donation to the Salvation Army at the launching of this year’s Christmas Appeal yesterday.
Following the President’s $100,000 donation, others joined him and dropped in their contributions at the launch, which was held on the lawns of Guyana Stores at Main Street, Georgetown.
The Christmas Appeal is usually observed annually in Guyana by the Salvation Army which has always been engaged in a war against poverty, President Granger said during his address to the gathering at the launch. He added that should Guyana move forward, inequality must be reduced, as poverty is a great challenge.
The President said he is convinced that although we are a small population, should the inequalities be removed more people will graduate into the middle class and will they be able to enjoy the good life which was promised to them.
No one has ever criticised or fought against the Salvation Army, Granger stated, while he expressed appreciation for the association of the Salvation to Army Guyana, which has been in existence here for over 120 years as one of the pillars of society.
He voiced gratitude for the services offered by the Salvation Army, including its drug rehabilitation work, which has benefited Guyanese over the years.
Granger noted too that many families have regarded Christmas as a time for children and in that light the launch of the campaign is also a recognition of the centrality of children in our lives. While it is important that children be taken care of, Granger also emphasised the importance of caring and giving.
The gathering was also urged by the President to give generously and visit the homes of the elderly and the hospitals.
