On Saturday Men on Mission (MOM) initiative handed over a newly constructed two-bedroom home to Shervin De Younge, a 43-year-old father of five who lost his previous home in a devastating fire last year.
According to a statement issued by MoM, the De Younge family’s home was destroyed on September 6, 2023.
At the time of the fire, one of the children was bedridden with dengue fever, but quick action by Shervin’s wife saved all the children from the flames. Despite job instability, Shervin remained committed to supporting his family, and his children excelled in their studies, with one child recently earning a place at Anna Regina Secondary School.
Shervin sought assistance from the Men on Mission program, with support from Regional Commander Superintendent and Vice Chairman of the Regional MOM Committee, Khemraj Shivbaran.
Throughout the process, Shervin expressed deep gratitude for Shivbaran’s unwavering support, noting that he always felt heard and respected during his frequent visits.
Reflecting on their journey, Shervin expressed his appreciation, saying, “It wasn’t easy, but standing here today, I can say that all the struggles were worth it. My wife stood by me like a rock, as did my children, even when things seemed hopeless.”
At the handover ceremony, Deodat Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, shared his own experiences to inspire the family. “I grew up in a house smaller than this, with not many windows. It was wooden, rotten, and the roof leaked. I lived with nine other siblings, but despite those challenges, I became a minister, thanks to the Lord. Your children, too, can achieve their dreams with hard work and dedication. In my time, there was no program like Men on Mission, so I’m pleased you reached out to them. President Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party genuinely care about the poor. We’ve developed numerous programs to assist those in need. Fire is a destroyer, but what comes after can be celebrated. I know fire destroyed your home, Mr. De Younge, but now you have a better one.”
Now, with a new home, Shervin and his family have a place they can truly call their own. “I can’t forget to mention every other person in this community for all the help we received. I’m thankful, and on behalf of my family, I want this message to reach His Excellency: happy is not a word, overjoyed is not a word, ecstatic is not a word—there aren’t enough words to describe how we feel stepping into this beautiful home. So once again, I say thank you all. God bless you all.”
Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, National MOM Coordinator, also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of private sector partnerships in MOM’s continued success.
He highlighted KGM Security’s donation of a fridge, stove, and chair set for the De Younge family, and acknowledged the contributions of other businesses supporting the initiative.
Murli also discussed the Youth Empowerment and Mentorship Program (YEMP), which targets at-risk children, promoting self-discipline and exposing them to activities like karate and archery, with plans to expand the program to additional regions.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Regional Commander Superintendent Khemraj Shivbaran, Regional Chairman Vilma DeSilva, and MOM Executive Committee members Dr. Josh Khanhai and Mr. Roger Rogers, alongside community members.
The Men on Mission initiative, inspired by President Irfaan Ali’s vision, continues to provide crucial support to those in need, focusing on mentorship and improving living conditions for vulnerable communities across Guyana.
