Mahdia, Guyana

Incident Overview
On May 21, 2023, a devastating fire engulfed a girls’ dormitory in Mahdia, Guyana, tragically claiming the lives of 20 young girls. This tragedy deeply impacted the community, leaving survivors and families in need of ongoing support. Through discussions with the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) and other sources, it was clear that the community required long-term, non-monetary assistance to help rebuild their lives.

Project Objective
Green Dupatta’s goal was to provide long-term emergency relief to those affected by the Mahdia fire, responding to the community’s request for non-monetary support. This included essential items such as clothing, shoes, school supplies, and books to help families rebuild. In partnership with the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) for distribution, Green Dupatta focused on creating sustainable support, ensuring the aid was both impactful and aligned with community needs.

Can Emergency Support Be Sustainable?
Emergency support can indeed be sustainable when approached thoughtfully. GDCO prioritizes sustainability by following practices such as using circular economy models and donating reusable items. The organization is dedicated to long-term recovery and fostering resilient communities by encouraging community-led initiatives and proactive planning.

Organizational Actions
GDCO collected and shipped three barrels of essential donated items to community members in need. To ensure fair distribution, GDCO worked closely with the Amerindian Peoples Association, developing a plan for collective and equitable resource allocation. The Indo-Caribbean Canadian Association also supported the project, enhancing this collaborative effort to meet the community’s needs and lay the groundwork for sustained support.