An elderly couple from Crabwood Creek, Berbice, has received the keys to a brand-new home on Thursday, thanks to the Men on Mission (MOM) initiative. The house, which consists of two bedrooms and a washroom facility, was handed over during a brief but touching ceremony, marking a significant milestone in their lives.
The MOM initiative, launched by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, is dedicated to addressing pressing issues affecting vulnerable communities across Guyana. Through this program, homes are constructed and rehabilitated for families in need, offering renewed hope and security for some of the country’s most disadvantaged citizens.
One of the beneficiaries of this initiative, 61-year-old Shakuntala Babooram, and her 63-year-old husband, have long faced difficulties that have only intensified in recent years. For the past decade, Shakuntala’s husband has been bedridden after suffering a stroke that left him unable to work or provide for their household. Prior to his illness, he was employed at the Skeldon Sugar Estate, where he earned a living to support the family. His sudden health deterioration changed their lives dramatically, leaving Shakuntala to bear the weight of financial and caregiving responsibilities.
Despite these challenges, Shakuntala has worked tirelessly as a domestic worker, taking on any jobs she could find to keep food on the table and ensure basic needs were met. However, their old home, where they have lived for many years, had fallen into a state of severe disrepair. The once sturdy structure had deteriorated over time, leaving the couple in precarious living conditions, and the house had become unsafe. Without sufficient income, Shakuntala could not afford to repair it, even as she continued to care for her husband’s needs daily.
“I’ve been trying my best, but it’s been hard,” she shared. “My husband needs constant care, and the little I earn just isn’t enough to fix the house. We were living in fear that it could collapse one day.”
Her struggles came to light during a government outreach in Region Six, where she took the opportunity to speak directly to President Ali about her plight. Overcoming her reservations, Shakuntala explained the hardships her family had endured and the poor condition of their home. Her story moved the President and his team, and within days, the Men on Mission initiative contacted her with a promise of assistance.
The swift intervention by MOM brought much-needed relief. Yesterday, as the keys were handed over to the Baboorams, there was a sense of renewed hope. Reflecting on the moment, Shakuntala expressed her deep gratitude. “Now, with this new home, there’s finally light at the end of the tunnel. The help we received will ease some of our burdens and allow us to live more comfortably. It’s a blessing.”
The keys to the new home were officially handed over by Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh. During his remarks, the Minister praised Shakuntala for her resilience and dedication to her husband’s care, noting that the government’s efforts through the Men on Mission initiative aim to uplift families like the Baboorams, who have persevered through tremendous challenges.
“We are committed to improving the lives of every citizen, especially those who have faced the greatest hardships. Today is a reflection of that commitment. We will continue working to ensure that no one is left behind,” said the Minister.
The ceremony was attended by several senior regional officials, including Region Six Chairman David Armogan, Regional Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain, and Regional Executive Officer Narindra Persaud, all of whom extended their congratulations and well wishes to the couple. They emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to transforming the lives of vulnerable citizens through housing, social support, and public service initiatives.
As the Baboorams move into their new home, they do so with the promise of greater stability and security, thanks to the compassionate intervention of the Men on Mission initiative. For Shakuntala and her husband, it is a dream realized—a chance to live the rest of their years in a safe, comfortable environment.
