Gov’t to make a one off payment of up to $50K to Venezuelan families in Georgetown

The Ministry of Social Protection will soon begin a ‘Shock Responsive Social Protection System’ aimed at ensuring that the essential needs of 20 Venezuelan families are met.

A press release from the Ministry of the Presidency (MOTP) Monday noted that based on the agreed areas of support, which may include support for their rent or provision of school supplies, the Ministry will facilitate services to the families for payment of up to $50,000.

“The monies would not be handed over to the families but will be paid to suppliers who provide the needed services. This initial system would be available to migrants who are located in Georgetown,” the release noted.

When contacted by the News Room Assistant Director of the Press Unit at the MOTP, Ariana Gordon clarified that the $50,000 is a one-off payment which will commence within the new few weeks.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Social Protection said the programme will specifically target persons who have inadequate income or no sources; mothers and fathers or other legally appointed relatives who are the primary/ principal caregivers for a child or children under 14 years; persons who are legally in Guyana and are willing to be registered to legalise their status and migrants, particularly those over 18 years who agree to attend an appointment and agree to be registered with the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA).

“It is expected that all beneficiaries will be registered with the Ministry and will be constantly monitored to determine progress of the families and the status of children in school,” the Government release noted.

“Moreover, the United Nations Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) will work with the Social Protection Ministry to provide support in the documentation of the successes and lessons learnt from this initiative.”