The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services (MPSDFS) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the lives of senior citizens through continued collaboration with community-centred organizations. The Honourable Vandana Mohit, Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, presented a one-off grant of $7,500 to the non-profit organization Bridges to the Heart, in support of its 2025 end-of-year programme for elderly persons and their caregivers. The brief event took place on Wednesday 3rd December, 2025, at the Ministry’s Head Office in Port of Spain.
Bridges to the Heart is a registered NGO dedicated to bridging relational gaps across society, with a dedicated focus on strengthening intergenerational bonds between youth and the elderly. Through programmes such as Adopt a Grandparent, Adopt a Grandpal, the Love Bridges Series, and Shared Stories, the organization continues to combat ageism, reduce isolation among seniors, and revive meaningful traditions across communities.
The Ministry has supported these initiatives over the years, noting their direct alignment with the Ministry’s mandate to protect the elderly and promote their physical, emotional, and social well-being. These efforts also complement the Ministry’s National Centenarian Programme, which honours seniors for their longevity and lifelong contributions to Trinidad and Tobago.
The newly awarded grant will assist the NGO in delivering an impactful year-end programme aimed at promoting social inclusion and building intergenerational connections, particularly among seniors residing in care homes. The initiative is expected to foster emotional and mental well-being, encourage healthy ageing, and strengthen the support network for elderly persons and their caregivers.
Minister Mohit emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing partnership with the organization, stating that “Bridges to the Heart continues to play an essential role in nurturing relationships, reducing isolation, and creating a more compassionate and ageing-friendly society. The Ministry is pleased to support initiatives that bring comfort, connection, and dignity to our nation’s seniors.”
The grant was received on behalf of the organization by Reyan Modeste-Leach, Director of Administration, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Ministry’s continued support. Also present were Ryan Ramcharan, Permanent Secretary and Cindy Heeralal, Co-ordinator of the NGO Unit.
The Ministry remains committed to empowering civil society partners and advancing programmes that protect and uplift the elderly population across Trinidad and Tobago.