Traciann Brooks Finds New Hope with NSHP Housing Initiative in George’s Valley, St. Elizabeth
By: , March 19, 2025
Photo: Yhomo Hutchinson
Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness (second left), cuts the ribbon to mark the official handover of a brand-new home to New Social Housing Programme (NSHP) beneficiary, Traciann Brooks (second right), in George’s Valley, St. Elizabeth, on March 14. Sharing the moment are (from left ) Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth North Eastern, Delroy Slowley, and Chair, NSHP Oversight Committee, Judith Robb Walters.
Photo: Yhomo Hutchinson
Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness (left), and Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth North Eastern, Delroy Slowley (right), observe as New Social Housing Programme (NSHP) beneficiary, Traciann Brooks, signs a social contract after receiving a three-bedroom unit in her community of George’s Valley, St. Elizabeth, on March 14.The Full Story
Traciann Brooks of George’s Valley, St. Elizabeth, is now breathing a sigh of relief after receiving a home, thanks to the New Social Housing Programme (NSHP).
Ms. Brooks, who was in dire need of a new dwelling, received the keys to a three-bedroom home from Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, on March 14.
The happy beneficiary now has much better accommodation and leaves behind a dilapidated structure that was unsafe shelter for her and her family.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in George’s Valley, Dr. Holness reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to enhancing the housing conditions of deserving beneficiaries, including Ms. Brooks.
Dr. Holness, in explaining the arrangements of the social contract that Ms. Brooks signed for her new home, indicated that it is designed to safeguard the public’s investment.
“This is your house… [so] we can’t take it from you. [However] you are to abide by certain principles. One, you are going to maintain the house in the condition or better than you receive it, [and] you are not going to rent out this house or do anything else here other than [its serving as] your residence and that of your family members,” the Prime Minister stated.
He further encouraged Ms. Brooks to contact the NSHP in the future if she wishes to make any modifications to the unit.
Additionally, Dr. Holness urged her to ensure that utilities at the home are legally connected and emphasised that no criminal activity should take place at the location.
“[What is] important is that you continue to be an upstanding citizen and an ambassador for hope in the community, and that you will participate in the development of your community,” he said.
Ms. Brooks, who agreed to the terms, expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, the people of Jamaica and Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth North Eastern, Delroy Slowley.
“Some of the walls were falling and the bathroom was falling apart. So, I’m grateful for this house,” she said.
For his part, Mr. Slowley praised Ms. Brooks for her resilience, noting that she has overcome several other challenges in addition to her living conditions.
He pointed out that the entire community was rejoicing with the beneficiary and her family, as they are aware of her struggles.