Kamla: Help moms in need

OPPOSITION Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar urged the population to help needy mothers in her Mothers Day message yesterday.

“Mothers are truly remarkable, and in today’s ever-changing society, our roles have also evolved, but what has never changed is the unwavering and unconditional love every mother has for her children.”

Amidst the many roles of mothers — at home, at work, in business, and in research and development — they nurture us and shape us into the adults we become, she said.

“It is not an easy task, and many mothers, particularly those who may not have a familial support system, are often struggling, and can feel lost and fall into despair.

“If you know of a mother who may be experiencing difficulty, whether it is financially or coping with the responsibilities of motherhood, I ask that you reach out to her.” Even if you can’t offer professional support, you can lend a sympathetic ear, which can make a difference, Persad-Bissessar advised.

She said she honoured the memory of her own mother by working to help women and girls in need, and ensure our children have opportunities for their development.

“Today, it pains me to read news stories of mothers resorting to stealing to be able to care for their babies. This was one of the reasons the Government which I led introduced the baby grant, so that vulnerable mothers would be able to care for their child for the first year of his or her life.”

Persad-Bissessar was also worried by the ability of families to access to funding for lifesaving surgeries for their children.

“My heart bleeds for the parents who were turned away by the Children’s Life Fund, which was set up by the Government which I led.

“That fund saved the lives of more than 122 children during my term in office, and every member of my Cabinet contributed to the fund.”