THE Guyana Red Cross has extended its “Coin Collection Drive” exercise to the end of May 2015, since the drive has brought over 780 pounds of coins in support of its Meals on Wheels programme.This decision was taken since many of the participating groups asked for an extension. The 780 pounds of coins translates into approximately Gy$500,000, substantially contributing to the agency’s set target of $2M.

The outcome has thus far provided a good indication of the possibilities.
The Guyana Red Cross Meals on Wheels project supplies a nutritious and hot midday meal, delivered daily by cheerful volunteers to those who are unable to cook or shop for themselves.

This allows people to maintain a healthy lifestyle while remaining independent and in their homes for as long as possible. The programme has been in operation for over 50 years and demonstrates the principle of humanity in action.

The Bank of Guyana authorities have indicated that a large amount of coins is in circulation, and it has been noted that, over time, many of these $1, $5, and $10 coins are unavailable in the banking system.

The Bank of Guyana has over the last few years, been encouraging persons to bring in their coins or donate them to charities through collection boxes. The Guyana Red Cross Society has been named by the Central Bank as a willing partner to help collect the coins so they can be re-circulated into the system.

The Guyana Red Cross Society has set up Coin Boxes at many retail locations, but coins can also be taken directly to the Guyana Red Cross HQ at Barrack St in Eve Leary, Kingston.

The Guyana Red Cross is a non-profit, humanitarian organisation that depends on volunteers and donations from the private sector and civil society to do its work, particularly in the areas of health, disaster, and supporting the vulnerable.

One can be assured that donating to a trusted charity like the Guyana Red Cross is not only an act of kindness to poor and disadvantaged persons, but is also a way for many companies to fulfil their corporate social responsibilities.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest volunteer-based humanitarian network. It reaches 150 million people each year through its 186-member national societies. Together, the Red Cross acts before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people. It does so with impartiality as to nationality, race, gender, religious beliefs, class and political opinions.
(Shivanie Sugrim)