The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) through the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) is mobilising relief items, including masks, hygiene products and food supplies, for vulnerable families and communities expected to be affected by the institution of the nationwide emergency measures to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
On Friday, the government imposed a one-month countrywide 6pm to 6am curfew and restrictions on services, except for those deemed essential, as well as social activities.
“We are working to ensure that these supplies are available to the citizens who are directly impacted by the measures implemented to help the fight against the COVID-19. The Commission, prior to this had already stockpiled supplies and we continue to work with our partners of the NEOC including the Ministry of Communities, Food For the Poor, the Private Sector Commission, United Nations, the National Commission on Disabilities Guyana, the National Bureau of Statistics and the Guyana Defence Force. It is our intention to ensure that every individual who has been affected by these measures, receives the support they need,” the Director General of the CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, was quoted as saying in release issued by the Ministry of the Presidency.
Craig clarified to Sunday Stabroek that they will be using the databases of the CDC’s partners to identify families around the country that will be affected. He noted that after identifying the families, they will conduct an assessment to identify those that are the most severely affected after which they will be proceed with their plans to distribute the relief supplies.
“Several agencies including the Ministry of Social Protection and the Ministry of Communities have been tasked with identifying citizens who are in need of support during this time,” a statement by the Ministry of Presidency stated.
Meanwhile, Craig noted that the packing of the care packages has started and the distribution points and dates would be released as soon as they are finalised.
Craig also noted that the Commission welcomes assistance and donations from any company or individual who is willing to join the cause. The donations, he said, can be made in three categories: food supplies, personal care and sanitation supplies, and financing.
Companies or persons who wish to donate could do so at the CDC’s headquarters, Thomas Road, Thomas Lands or make cash or cheque deposits into its Republic Bank account: 962356519938. Food and hygiene supplies can be dropped off at the Thomas Lands location daily between 9am and 3 pm.
Additionally, systems will be put in place to facilitate the dropping off of supplies in the other administrative regions. Alternatively, contact can be made with the Commission on telephone numbers (592) 226 1114, 226 8815 and 226 1027.
The NEOC, which was activated on March 31, 2020 aims to ensure the highest level of collaboration among all stakeholders to further prevent the spread of the disease, enhance preparation and strengthen local response to this global pandemic.
