Cabinet to Get Submission for Drop-in Centre Funding

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, says the necessary submission will be made to Cabinet to ensure that there is adequate funding to operate drop-in centres being constructed across the island.

He was speaking at the official opening of the Hanover Drop-in Centre on Miller’s Drive, Lucea, on Friday (February 15).

“No drop-in facility that is constructed in this country will struggle to find funds to keep the doors open to offer service to those who are in need,” the Minister emphasised.

Mr. McKenzie also highlighted that overwhelming support has been given, so far, by non-governmental groups across the island in the operation of drop-in centres.

“We have seen where many private institutions, such as churches and civic groups, have found it necessary to work with the Ministry in the running of these facilities,” he added.

The Minister also assured the people of Hanover that the drop-in centre would be getting the best caregivers to tend to the indigent residents who will be utilising the facility.

“I want to give you the assurance that the $14 million that was used to construct this facility is not a one-off investment. The other investment will be in the human resources of this facility – the caregivers and those who are going to provide the services. We have to ensure that those services are not watered down,” Mr. McKenzie said.

The drop-in centre will provide warm meals for homeless persons, a place to shower, provide a change of clothes as well as a place to rest temporarily.