‘Six Religious Organizations Receive Financial Support to Strengthen Community Outreach’
In a powerful and symbolic final act ahead of the upcoming general election, Minister for Equity, Social Justice & Empowerment Hon. Joachim Henry, who’s not seeking reelection, on Friday, November 28, presided over a special ceremony under his ecclesiastical affairs portfolio, where six religious and faith-based organizations received close to $150K financial assistance to bolster their community outreach programmes.
Minister Henry used his final official duty to reaffirm the Government’s unwavering support for groups working at the frontline of social upliftment. He praised the recipient organizations for their steadfast dedication to serving the poor and vulnerable, highlighting their ongoing work in feeding programmes, mentorship initiatives, child day care, adolescent development, and youth empowerment.
He commended them for remaining true to what he described as their “God-given commission to serve the less fortunate,” noting that their devotion continues to fill critical gaps in community care. Minister Henry called on the wider society to emulate their example, saying their compassion and commitment represent the highest form of citizenship.
However, he also emphasized that more must be done to support individuals and families living on the margins. Staying true to his long-standing passion for social justice, the Minister appealed for continued advocacy, urging religious bodies, community groups, and key players in the social protection ecosystem to “become champions for the downtrodden.”
Permanent Secretary Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel echoed his sentiments, reminding attendees that collaboration between government, faith-based institutions, and civil society remains essential for strengthening the national social protection architecture. Recipients all express their deep gratitude noting that the funds would go towards expanding their various outreach activities, whilst the Anglican church indicated that funds would be directed towards much needed repairs to the church roofing.
Benefiting entities include the Anglican Church, the La Croix Church, the Bexon SDA, Dierrefot, Church of God and Marchand Catholic Church.
The ceremony marked a meaningful close to Minister Henry’s tenure, underscoring his consistent message of compassion, empowerment, and upliftment for the nation’s most vulnerable.
