The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has emerged as a pivotal force in addressing homelessness in the Corporate Area, with its Poor Relief Department being hailed as a ‘beacon of hope.’ The department manages two key shelters: the Marie Atkins Night Shelter, operational since 1993, and the Desmond McKenzie Transitional Centre for the Homeless, which commenced operations in 2022. These facilities provide a structured and dignified environment, offering essential services such as meals, clothing, shelter, and comprehensive medical and mental health care. Donna-Gaye Brady, Acting Inspector of Poor at KSAMC, emphasized the department’s holistic approach, stating, ‘We not only provide meals but also develop rehabilitation programmes tailored to the needs of individuals in our facilities.’ The rehabilitation initiatives include customized treatment plans and upskilling programmes, facilitated through partnerships with organizations like HEART, which assists in job placements post-training. Additionally, KSAMC’s environmental warden programme employs homeless individuals to clean the streets of Kingston, providing them with a source of income and a sense of purpose. This multifaceted approach underscores KSAMC’s commitment to transforming lives and fostering community integration.
