13 single mothers receive WOW cheques

As efforts intensify to assist and improve the living conditions of the vulnerable sections in society, 13 single parents drawn from different parts of the country yesterday received individual cheques of varying sums, signalling hope and confidence for a brighter future. The ceremony at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Water Street Branch, at which the Human Services Minister, Priya Manickchand presented the cheques, highlighted the PPP/C government’s commitment towards bringing relief and support to single parents, particularly women, allowing them an opportunity to make a significant contribution to economic development.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Priya Manickchand (fourth from left) flanked by representatives of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) and first group of beneficiaries of the WOW programme.

Speaking at the presentation, Minister Manickchand emphasised that this facility will enable women to access financial assistance in a manner which they formerly would have not been able to do.
She stressed that because of this easier way of financing, women will now be able to contribute to the development of the country, pointing out that they are the more vulnerable sections of society.
“We can do so at a more rapid pace if we make sure that all of our people are able to access all of Guyana’s resources; we know that women generally are more vulnerable to harsh circumstances and so it makes you less likely to be able to proceed at the same pace like our male counterparts,” she said.
“The Ministry and the GBTI stand ready and are willing to assist you with any problems that you might have,” Minister Manickchand said.
Staff of the Human Services Ministry and the Bank will be in Berbice on Saturday and Essequibo next Wednesday to make the facility accessible to women there.
The first beneficiaries are Simone Primo, Roxanne Williamson, Teresa Yong, Shivauna Marciano, Oney Forde, Mary Merciano, Vanessa Estwick, Mariska Trotman, Denise Warrick, Lauretta Applesammy, Shondell Adams, Nicola John and Donna Breedy.
The loans, which range from $100,000 to $250,000 will be used to establish businesses in the areas of rearing broiler chicks, groceries, hair and nail supplies, clothing and a salon.
The Ministry also approved 92 other applicants who will receive their cheques shortly.
The Women of Worth (WOW) project is a single parent financial facility launched by President Bharrat Jagdeo on June 4 at the Guyana International Conference Centre.