Forty families are now on their way to executing construction works at their homes after receiving Grants from the National Commission for Self Help Limited.
On Monday, the Grant Distribution was held at the Hampden/Lowlands Multi-Purpose Facility in Tobago. This is the Central Government’s first Tobago Distribution Ceremony since assuming office in April.
Grants amounting to an estimated $630,000 were distributed to successful Tobago applicants in the National Commission for Self Help’s database.
Chairman of the Commission Vishnu Ramlakhan reminded recipients that the Commission, established in 1987, is focused on improving the lives of citizens.
“Empowering communities across Trinidad and Tobago is the Commission’s forte. It is who we are, what we know and we do best. Today we are investing in the social infrastructure of Tobago by enriching the lives of forty Grant recipients. This has been no easy task.”
The Commission is now under the purview of the Office of the Prime Minister.
Liaison Coordinator in the OPM Ashworth Jack explained the reason for this, noting that the government is committed to empowering the country’s human resource.
“This is an indication that the government is saying to all of us that the most important resource in this country is the human resource so by doing these Grants on a continuous basis it is protecting the resource in terms of how you live, in terms of the comfort that you have so that you can send your children to school in comfort.”
THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, delivering the feature address, articulated similar sentiments, noting that the Grants will provide security and promote mental wellbeing.
“I understand how Grants like these can help bring a sense of pride, can help bring a sense of social identity and dignity to families. How Grants like these can assist with healthier lifestyles. How Grants like these can help with strengthening community cohesion, and finally, how Grants can reduce social inequality.”
Members of Parliament for Tobago East and West, Joel Sampson and David Thomas, were commended for their advocacy for Tobagonians, which made the distribution possible. Both MPs urged recipients to make proper use of the Grants to improve their lives. Another Grant Distribution is expected by the start of 2026.