Supporting Grans in Grenada
Introduced in September 2010, the Grans Scheme continues to support ‘Grannies & Grandads’ across Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
The project was initiated as a response to the significant number of vulnerable citizens who were struggling to meet their basic needs including nutritious foods, medication, and personal hygiene. The Grans scheme supports elderly individuals who are without family or medical help and, as a result of the lack of any adequate nationally organised social care, rely on the SVP to ensure their necessities are met.
Despite the name, the scheme is open to both Grans and Granddads. The age range of the beneficiaries is between 60 - 91 years and the project currently supports 12 individuals. Beneficiaries of the scheme are supported until their passing, providing them with security and long-term friendship.
To date, a total of 24 people have been supported by this project.
Each "Gran" receives $100 ECD (estimated £30) a month towards their accommodation, food, medicine and more.
Can you help by donating?
Support on the Grans scheme is three-fold.
1 - Financial provision to assist with living costs:
- Housing
- Food
- Medicine
2 - Companionship through regular visits, alongside a spiritual connection through regular prayers for those on the Scheme and those shared during visits.
3 - Health & well-being promotion, through an annual visit which is conducted to assess the overall condition and needs of the GRANs, and plans are put into to place to best support the GRANs.
James (pictured with President Sherma and an SVP Member) has been on the Grans scheme for the past few years. The members visit him each month to take him grocery shopping - he lives at the top of a steep hill and is unable to go out alone - and share quality time with him. The monthly Grans stipend also helps cover the cost of his utility bills and medicine.
Fifteen months after Hurricane Beryl destroyed his home in July 2024, half of it has now been rebuilt and is once again liveable. When visited, SVP members remark on James' warm smile and gracious welcome, reflecting the strong bond he shares with the SVP members.
Ruth has lived in her bungalow for many years. In 2004, Hurricane Ivan tore off most of the roof and caused extensive damage, and in 2024, when Hurricane Beryl struck the island, Ruth sought refuge at her neighbour’s house. Fortunately, her own home escaped damage this time.
Following the death of her husband and having no children, Ruth now relies heavily on her niece for grocery shopping and general support.
Through the GRAN’s scheme, she receives a monthly stipend of £30, which provides a modest contribution towards food and utilities.
Thankfully, the Grans scheme is about more than just a financial stipend. Conference members take turns visiting Ruth, ensuring she always has someone to talk to or call upon for help. Without a mobile phone or internet connection, she felt increasingly isolated when many social activities and meetings moved online since Covid.
Thanks to the SVP Grenada, Ruth is not alone.
In 2021, SSVP Grenada began supporting Daryl. Daryl is unable to walk, instead carrying himself on his knees. He is nonverbal and has developed his own unique way of communicating, which SSVP members who visit regularly have learnt to understand. He lives alone in a small house close to his sister and her family, but has no source of income. Thanks to the support of the GRANs Scheme, Daryl receives support for his accommodation as well as friendship and companionship. Daryl has expressed thanks to the local SSVP in Grenada.
Can you help the GRANs scheme to continue providing essential support by donating today?
Just £30 would support one Gran or Grandad for a month.