Ocho Rios Night Shelter Officially Opened

The homeless in Ocho Rios, St. Ann now have access to shelter at night, following the official opening of the Ocho Rios Night Shelter, in Buckfield, on Friday (August 18).

The facility, which was opened by Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, will provide temporary shelter, meals, and bathroom amenities for the homeless population in and around the resort town.

The building, which is adjacent to the Ocho Rios Drop-in Centre, was constructed at a cost of $22 million, and can accommodate 13 men and seven women at a time.

In his remarks, Minister McKenzie said the facility will make accommodation for additional people if it becomes necessary.

He stated that the drop-in centre, established in conjunction with the new night shelter, goes beyond merely providing a roof over the heads of the homeless.

“The drop-in centre since it was established, we not only take them in and give them medical care and look after their needs, but we also try to rehabilitate them,” he said.

The Minister pointed out that this has resulted in the successful rehabilitation and reintegration of five homeless individuals, into permanent employment.

Additionally, he disclosed that one resident has embarked on a journey of education, by pursuing a certificate in agriculture at Ebony Park Heart Academy.

Minister McKenzie further disclosed that plans are underway to create a therapeutic park within the shelter’s vicinity, aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those who seek refuge there.

He also informed that the government’s next focus will be on the Brown’s Town area, which has a growing number of homeless individuals.

“Our next port of call will be the Brown’s Town area to see if we could put in something…that would deal with the issues there,” Mr. McKenzie said.

The Minister also informed that the Government has allocated over $100 million in social security for the poor and destitute in St. Ann for this year, representing its continued commitment to addressing homelessness and improving the lives of vulnerable citizens.

Meanwhile the facility has already garnered positive feedback from the homeless.

Byron Gilzene, who spoke glowingly about the night shelter, said the new facility will serve as a refuge where he can escape the violence he was exposed to on the streets.

“To contribute to homeless persons is a blessing. I was hospitalized two weeks ago and almost died from wounds inflicted by being homeless sleeping in the bus park. It gives me great enthusiasm that this place, that is now my home, will be protecting me,” he said.

Mr. Gilzene, who carried out the landscaping works at the new facility, was offered a permanent job by Minister McKenzie.