Caring for Others Organization hosts senior citizens luncheon in Linden

Over 200 senior citizens from the mining town of Linden on Saturday, were treated to a Christmas luncheon and gift presentation at the Praise Tabernacle Church. The initiative was sponsored by Miss Eslene Shockley, Founder of the Caring for Others Organization and hosted by Caring for Others Guyana representative Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira and Pastor Selwyn Sills. In a beautifully decorated hall coupled with a jolly ambiance, delicious food and entertaining music, the elderly men and women enjoyed an afternoon of comradery and appreciation.

The annual luncheon started in 2015 and this year, the organization also catered for shut ins. In addition to being treated with lots to eat and drink, each guest also went away with a prize, including money, home appliances, food hampers, jewelry and footwear.

In a short address to the elderly guests, Miss Shockley said she was motivated to host the luncheon yearly as similar initiatives impacted her as a child when she attended with her grandmother. Now that she is in a position to give back, the philanthropist, who has hosted several charitable ventures over the years in Linden, said she is pleased to treat those who paved a way and laid the foundation for the younger generation.

Figueira expressed gratitude to Miss Shockley for being a beacon of hope in the Linden community, catering for vulnerable groups, not only at Christmas time, but throughout the year. Her passion to alleviate poverty and to give back has motivated him to give his time and energies to the organization’s cause. “It is phenomenal work Miss Shockley is doing in Linden, Guyana and around the world and I am happy to be a part of this movement, to bring smiles to the faces of the vulnerable and less fortunate. We have been doing this since 2015 and will continue to serve those deserving of service.”

One pensioner from Amelia’s Ward Martha James, who attended the luncheon, said the day was well spent and rolled in the Christmas spirit for her. “It is good to know that people remember the elderly and are giving back, I had a grand time, everything went well and I felt appreciated with the gifts I recieved.”

On Saturday, Caring for Others will host a toy and gift distribution for over 2000 children.