Homeless Persons in St. Elizabeth Feted

Homeless persons and other vulnerable individuals in St. Elizabeth were pampered and feted in observance of World Homeless Day on October 10.

The event, held at the Drop-In Centre in Black River, was organised by the Poor Relief Department of the St. Elizabeth Municipal Corporation under the national theme, ‘Advocate, Rehabilitate, Reintegration: The Journey Home’.

Activities focused on raising awareness and support for the parish’s homeless and included free health checks provided by the St. Elizabeth Health Department, grooming services, meals and refreshments.

Inspector of Poor for the parish, Catherine Blake-Williams, told JIS News that persons who visit the Drop-In Centre are provided with two meals and a bath, six days per week from Monday to Saturday.

“So, they can come and bathe, have a change of clothing and have two meals. Even on holidays, we make special provision so they are never out of a meal,” she noted.

She said that the day was also used to highlight the department’s rehabilitation services, through which persons are placed on a path to recovery.

Mrs. Blake-Williams noted that one person, who previously struggled with drug addiction, is taking steps to change his life, and the department is working to place him in a rehabilitation home to support his ongoing recovery.

Additionally, a young man with mental health challenges is receiving assistance while a third individual, who lost his home in a fire, is getting help to “have a roof over his head”.

“Overall, we want to see all of these persons get some semblance of life in a positive way,” Mrs. Blake-Williams, said, noting that she would like to see the establishment of a night shelter that would provide much-needed space for those who currently sleep on the streets.

Mayor of Black River and Chairman of the St. Elizabeth Municipal Corporation, Councillor Richard Solomon, commended the Poor Relief Department for organising the event.

He acknowledged the vital role the Department plays in improving the lives of homeless and street people and encouraged everyone to support these efforts.

Kenneth Morris of Black River credited the Poor Relief Department and the Drop-In Centre for enabling him to turn his life around.

Mr. Morris said he was grateful for the rehabilitation services provided and called for continued support for the homeless and street people in St. Elizabeth.