The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated the first home renovation under its Home Assistance Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) in St Philip’s South constituency, marking a significant milestone in national housing assistance efforts. Construction materials have been delivered to the property located in St Philip’s Village, with preparatory work commencing immediately under the administration of the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation.
Kiz Johnson, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) caretaker for St Philip’s South, confirmed the delivery of building supplies as the project moves into its implementation phase. The initiative represents a collaborative effort between government agencies and local communities to address housing insecurity among vulnerable populations.
Rawdon Turner, alongside community representatives, visited the construction site to meet with homeowner Sean Limerick (locally known as ‘Tony’) prior to the beginning of renovation work. The event demonstrated strong community engagement, with village residents—including young volunteers—actively participating in unloading the delivered materials.
The refurbishment project will employ local builders from within the constituency, ensuring economic benefits remain within the community. Officials have established an optimistic timeline for construction completion, anticipating that the renovated property will substantially enhance the homeowner’s living conditions and provide lasting stability.
HAPI represents a cornerstone of the government’s social welfare strategy, systematically addressing substandard housing conditions through targeted repairs and rehabilitation projects across the twin-island nation. The program specifically targets citizens experiencing economic hardship, offering tangible support through physical infrastructure improvements.