THE Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, Vandana Mohit, distributed 65 disaster relief grants valued at more than $269,000 across Penal/Debe, Siparia and surrounding communities.

In a release, the ministry said the grants were provided to more than 40 households, representing 160 beneficiaries, in a grant distribution ceremony on September 20.

"The ceremony, hosted at the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation on SS Erin Road, Penal, was not just about financial aid, but a heartfelt assurance that the government stands firmly beside its citizens in their time of need," the release said.