GEORGETOWN, Guyana (GINA) -- A vessel shipping four containers packed with flour, refined coconut oil, pharmaceuticals, water and clothes departed today from Georgetown, Guyana for Jamaica, the established focal point, from where it will then be transported to Haiti.

Prior to the departure of the vessel, Chairperson of the National Committee for Haiti Relief, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Priya Manickchand received over $10 million from several entities and kind-hearted Guyanese at a presentation ceremony held at the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Thomas Lands.

Manickchand said that since they were informed that ports in Haiti were cleared up, no effort is being spared in ensuring that the much needed aid reach the devastated country as early as possible, so that Haitians can be comforted by the relief. The Minister expressed appreciation on the Committee's behalf, to all Guyanese for their continuing support in providing assistance for the people of Haiti.

Presentations were made by the Pomeroon Oil Mills of $500,000 in refined coconut oil, Regal Stationery, $300,000, Guyana Lottery Company, $1 million, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers' Union (GAWU), $97,500, Cheddi Jagan Research Center, $6,000, Hand-in-Hand Insurance, $1 million, Stewartville Secondary School, $101,000, proceeds from the concert held at Theatre Guild, $220,000, Metro, 20 bags of clothes, Monar Educational Institute, $41, 000, and Ranger's Sports Club, $20,000.

Additionally, proceeds from a telethon held in Berbice via the Little Rock Television Station (LRTVS) in conjunction with the Berbice Chamber of Commerce, saw a sum of $5, 175,000 being handed over to the Committee by LRTVS owner Pearl Christie, who spearheaded the effort.

Proceeds from the 'Mothers of Guyana for Mothers of Haiti' road march, which amounted to $1,131,189 and a notable amount of dry goods, footwear and clothes were also handed to the Committee. Proceeds from a telethon led by Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn on January 23 in Linden are yet to be collected. This too, is expected to be a significant sum.

Another shipment of at least 10 containers is expected to leave for Haiti on Friday.