Linden Diaspora Raises $2.1 M for flood relief

Six organizations in the U.S. respond to M&TC appeal to support residents affected by flooding

The devastating flooding in Region 10 which occurred as as a result of the May-June rainy season, prompted Mayor of Linden Waneka Arrindell and Deputy Mayor Wainwright Bethune to reach out to six U.S.-based Guyanese organizations to rally support for the community. The six organizations: G.I.V.E. Foundation #592; Guyana Youth Development Association (GUYDA); Linden Dream Team; Caribbean American Family Fun Day Committee; Mackenzie High School Alumni Association North American Chapter; and Linden Fund USA, worked collectively, through a GoFundMe campaign, raising US$10,000 in donations.

Region 10 was one of the worst hit regions during this year’s level three flooding and this saw several outlying communities such as Kwakwani and Malali, as well as several pockets of communities within the Township  itself experiencing severe flooding during the heavy rains. Severely affected were scores of residents, many of whom had to evacuate their homes and farmers who recorded significant losses.

On Thursday the symbolic cheque was handed over to the Linden Mayor and Town Council which will contributed significantly to the region’s flood relief efforts. In remarks by the Mayor, it was outlined that the funds would be used to prepare food hampers, cleaning supplies and, where possible, infrastructure support to residents. It was also noted that, through consultation with Regional Agricultural Officer, Mr. Deryck Collins, support will also be provided to farmers for agricultural essentials such as seeds and, in some cases, livestock where applicable.

Mr. Damani Corbin, Board Member with Linden Fund USA, provided brief remarks on behalf of the six collaborators, noting that the opportunity to support the relief efforts is one which the diaspora organizations were proud to be a part of. These organizations consider Region 10 home and the opportunity to provide support to fellow citizens of the Region during this time is a continuation of work that some of these organizations have already been doing in the community.

The official handover was facilitated by Ms. Cheryl Waite, Office Manager of LFU Guyana Inc./Linden Fund USA, to the Mayor of Linden, on behalf of the six organizations that led the GoFundMe campaign.