Social activist Mark Benschop has announced another major back-to-school initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable children across Guyana, with the Benschop Foundation, his family and supporters set to distribute 1,500 books, 30 bicycles, 100 school bags and school supplies ahead of the September school term.
The announcement, made in a social media post, continues a longstanding tradition of educational and humanitarian outreach by Benschop, whose foundation has spent years providing assistance to disadvantaged families through back-to-school drives, food distributions, toy giveaways and other community-based initiatives.
Benschop, who is also the host of the nightly Monday-to-Friday programme “Straight Up with Mark Benschop” and owner of 107.1 FM Radio, has long used both his charitable foundation and media platforms to advocate for community development, education and social welfare initiatives across Guyana.
This year, Benschop said his own children will contribute to the effort by donating 500 reading books and 10 bicycles to children in need.
“For the new school term September (in Guyana), my children will donate 500 reading books and 10 bicycles to those in need,” he wrote.
He said the Foundation, working alongside friends and supporters, will supplement those donations with 100 school bags, school supplies, 1,000 books and 20 additional bicycles, significantly expanding the programme’s reach.
“Yes, it takes a village to raise a child for a safer, and better Guyana,” Benschop stated.
For years, the Benschop Foundation has been recognised for its grassroots charitable work, mobilising volunteers, donors and community partners to assist families facing economic hardship. Its annual back-to-school campaigns have become a hallmark of the Foundation’s work, providing children with educational materials that many families struggle to afford.
The latest initiative comes at a time when the cost of preparing children for school continues to weigh heavily on many households. Expenses associated with books, school bags, stationery, uniforms and transportation often place a significant burden on low-income families, prompting civic organisations, businesses and private citizens to step in with support ahead of each academic year.
Benschop has consistently argued that investing in children’s education is one of the most effective ways to build stronger communities and create opportunities for future generations. Through both his charitable work and public engagement, he has encouraged greater community participation in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of young people.
This year’s campaign reflects that philosophy, bringing together family members, friends and supporters in a collective effort to ensure that more children begin the new school year equipped with the tools they need to learn and succeed.
While the Foundation has not yet announced the dates or locations for the distribution exercise, the donations are expected to be made before schools reopen in September, providing much-needed assistance to children and families preparing for the new academic year.
