Stigesu urgently needs state subsidy

The Foundation for the Handicapped in Suriname (Stigesu) has no funds and will be forced to close its shelter if the government does not lend a helping hand. Stigesu reportedly has not received any state subsidy in 2015 and 2016. If the foundation closes the doors of its shelter, 34 students will be sent home and 10 employees will be unemployed and without medical insurance. The foundation which supports people with a disability by keeping them busy with activities every day is urging the government to transfer the subsidy as soon as possible. During the past couple of months Stigesu turned this way and that to stay afloat and to keep paying its employees. Reports indicate that Stigesu which was established 41 years ago took several loans in order to finance its operations. The foundation is dependent on subsidies from the government and donations from third parties. “Is this any way to treat people with a disability and hard working people?” The government should do its utmost to help people with a disability but the truth of the matter is that the foundation does not get help from the state. Stigesu has already handed in all of the paperwork needed to receive state subsidy but the Finance Ministry is still processing all of the documents. The foundation hopes that it will receive the state subsidy soon so that it can remain operational while paying back the loans.