[www.inewsguyana.com] – In its continued efforts to improve the living conditions of low income families, especially those in marginalised groups, Habitat for Humanity Guyana provided the opportunity for another family to celebrate Christmas in their own home. Amanda Anthony, a woman born with a disability, and her family moved in to their $2.5M two-bedroom home at the weekend.
The home was made possible through a partnership with Scotiabank Guyana under the Scotiabank/Habitat ‘Build a Home’ promotion. Scotiabank donated to Habitat Guyana a percentage of the value of Scotia Plan Loans, Auto Loans, and Mortgages applied for and disbursed between March 1 through October 31, 2013.
Anthony, a 52 – year – old mother of two was born with no legs below the knees. Originally from the interior region she moved to Georgetown with her husband and children about 10 years ago. Unfortunately, tragedy struck this family and her husband died of malaria. Amanda was left with two children to support and no source of income. Amanda adjusted to life without her lower legs.
While it did not hinder her capacity to function she has been unable to garner employment, which has resulted in her not affording to send her children to school and them not completing Primary school. As a result, her 22 year old son became the sole breadwinner, working for a minimal salary that was not sufficient to cater to the family’s daily needs and pay a mortgage.
When Amanda approached Habitat Guyana for support to construct her home there was no hesitation that she would become the first recipient of the promotion.
In addition to Scotiabank, Habitat Guyana received support for other areas of the home such as furnishing and the provision of food items from Courts, Ansa McAl, the Braam family, the Guyana Relief Council, which provides a monthly food hamper, and private donors. The organization has also received support from the Office of the President for future assistance.
