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When the COVID-19 pandemic forced movement restrictions, the Hajaree family sought immediate options to serve the less fortunate in his community.
Pastor Vickram Hajaree and his family continued the gift of giving recently from his South Oropouche community with over 500 gift bags and 200 food hampers.
Pastor Hajaree said the offerings were all funded by his family with savings they raised throughout the year.
He said around Christmas time since he started the community drive five years ago, children look forward to receiving their gift bags.
Hajaree said he had been a pastor for the past 45 years at the Open Bible Standards Churches; and performed missionary works in 100 nations including Africa, India, Guyana, Surinam, and Guatemala.
He said: “I grow up in poverty and I feel for people who are in need, so I have to give back to the community.
“I included my family too and we save throughout the year so when this time should come, they will not be pressed for finances. What we give, 99 per cent is from my family and out of pocket.”
Hajaree said the goodies were catered to children one to 12 years old inclusive of about 20 migrant families, to an approximate cost of $30,000.
He said it was just a way of treating the community of Harris Village and South Oroupouche environs.