-by David Clarke

As Guyana prepares to dispatch its first shipment of humanitarian aid to earthquake-ravaged Venezuela, the national relief effort is gathering momentum. The Civil Defense Commission (CDC) is urging members of the public and the private sector to donate essential supplies, as agencies work around the clock to coordinate the response. 

Guyana’s national humanitarian response following the devastating back-to-back earthquakes in Venezuela continues to gain momentum, with the Civil Defense Commission, the Guyana Defence Force, and the Muslim Youth Organisation leading efforts to provide urgently needed relief supplies. 

Collection and packaging operations are now underway at the MYO compound on Woolford Avenue, where donations are being received, documented, and prepared for shipment. The CDC says priority items include pharmaceuticals and other medical supplies, children’s medication, non-perishable food, clothing, and essential items for the elderly and other vulnerable groups.

CDC Deputy Director-General, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Thomas, further explained, “You can also visit MYO on Woolford Avenue, and you will meet the CDC staff, by members of the Guyana Defense Force and some staff from the MYO, and they will take your donation, ensure that it is documented, and commence the packaging and preparing for send-off to Venezuela.”

The first shipment of humanitarian supplies is expected to leave Guyana by Friday, as the country joins regional partners in delivering life-saving assistance to thousands of Venezuelans affected by the disaster. 

Persons wishing to contribute can contact the Civil Defense Commission on 600-7500, 226-1114 or 226-1117 for information on donation points.