A total of 8,200 food support cards have been distributed to Members of Parliament by the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services (MSDFS), the Ministry has confirmed in an official statement.
“The distribution is part of the Ministry’s efforts to ensure that vulnerable families who are experiencing hardship and are unable to fully provide for the nutritional needs of their respective families are provided with the necessary support,” the Ministry said in the statement.
Minister Cox presents 200 Christmas food cards to Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East, Vandana Mohit. [Image courtesy Ministry of Social Development and Family Services]
The food support cards are valued $550 and are redeemable only at merchants approved under the Food Support Programme of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services. The cards will be valid until January 31, 2023.
The Christmas Food Card Distribution is an annual activity undertaken by the Ministry, in keeping with the spirit of caring and giving that the season of Christmas represents.
Minister Cox presents 200 Christmas food cards to Member of Parliament for Cumuto/Manzanilla, Dr Rai Ragbir. [Image courtesy Ministry of Social Development and Family Services]
According to the Ministry’s release, Members of Parliament were given approximately 200 cards each for distribution, by Minister of Social Development and Family Services, Senator Donna Cox, at the Ministry’s Head Office on St Vincent Street, Port of Spain.
Minister Cox presents 200 Christmas food cards to Member of Parliament for Lopinot/Bon Air West Marvin Gonzales. [Image courtesy Ministry of Social Development and Family Services]
“Members of Parliament are responsible for distributing the Christmas Food cards to those in need within their communities,” the Social Development Ministry explained.
“It is the Ministry’s hope that this support will bring some cheer to the families,” it added.
All recipients will be contacted by their respective MP Offices with information on distribution dates and times.