The Salvation Army in Suriname faces a significant reduction in its annual Christmas outreach program, distributing only 800 food parcels this holiday season compared to 1,400 last year. The organization had targeted a fundraising goal of SRD 1 million to support 1,500 packages for those in need but fell substantially short of this objective.
Distribution commenced this morning at the Salvation Army’s Paramaribo headquarters, where over 600 recipients collected their packages. According to PR officer Guillermo Demon, the remaining 200 parcels will be distributed across the Para, Coronie, Saramacca and Nickerie regions.
The event began with prayers and Christmas wishes before nearly descending into chaos as demand dramatically exceeded supply. Police intervention was required to maintain order and ensure the orderly continuation of the distribution process. Following the official allocation, a group of hopeful individuals remained on the premises in the vain expectation that additional packages might become available.
Demon noted that hundreds of registered applicants ultimately faced disappointment. ‘Demand is increasing, but our resources and finances are diminishing,’ he observed. Despite the setback, Demon maintained a philosophical perspective: ‘This is indeed a decline. But as a Christian organization, we don’t complain or mourn. We prayed and worked toward this goal. Whatever the result, we thank the Lord. We will examine how to improve next year.’