Chaguanas East MP Demands Clarity on Connect88’s Social Service Promotions

Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East, Ms. Vandana Mohit,

The Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East, is calling upon the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services to urgently clarify its position regarding the recent promotions by the Connect88 Foundation at an event held at the Chaguanas Community Centre on February 13th, 2025.

During the event, the Connect88 Foundation reportedly promoted assistance for housing grants and food cards, raising concerns among residents about the legitimacy of these initiatives and whether they are sanctioned by the Ministry.

The Ministry of Social Development and Family
Services has designated offices and procedures for the distribution of housing grants and food cards, which are provided at no cost to citizens.

However, reports have surfaced suggesting that individuals associated with the Connect88 Foundation may have implied or directly stated that a cost is attached to accessing these services.
This has caused confusion and concern among residents of Chaguanas East and beyond, who rely on these critical social support programs.

In light of these developments, the Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East is urging the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services to issue a public statement addressing the
following:

1. Whether the Connect88 Foundation’s promotions at the Chaguanas Community Centre were undertaken with the knowledge, approval, or endorsement of the Ministry.

2. Whether the Ministry has any formal partnership or agreement with the Connect88 Foundation regarding the distribution of housing grants and food cards.

3. A clear reminder to the public that housing grants and food cards are available through designated government offices at no cost, and that no third-party organization is authorized to charge fees for these services.

The welfare of our citizens is of utmost importance, and it is critical that the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services provide clarity on this matter. Residents must be assured that they can access these vital services without fear of exploitation or misinformation.

I urge the Ministry to act swiftly to address these concerns and to reaffirm its commitment to transparency and accountability in the delivery of social services.

The MP for Chaguanas East also encourages residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or unauthorized requests for payment related to government assistance programs.
For further information, residents are advised to contact the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services directly or visit their official website for updates.

The Office of the Member of Parliament for Chaguanas East remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of all constituents and will continue to monitor this situation closely.