A dramatic escalation in rental prices has triggered a significant increase in the demand for emergency shelter assistance in New Providence, according to Social Services officials. Chief Social Worker Deborah Smith, who manages shelter operations, highlighted that many families are being displaced due to sudden and substantial rent hikes, often amounting to hundreds of dollars within weeks. Smith noted that tenants are struggling to cope with these abrupt increases, leading to a surge in requests for emergency housing. Housing Minister Keith Bell has also raised concerns, citing reports of rent increases exceeding $500. He revealed that draft legislation is being finalized to better balance the rights of landlords and tenants before the end of the current term. Currently, there are 123 shelter spaces available, but demand far exceeds supply. Smith explained that shelter occupancy is in constant flux, with new cases being logged continuously. Social Services Minister Myles Laroda announced plans to rent two additional facilities to address the growing number of displaced residents. The issue gained widespread attention after Ameca Ford McKenzie, a mother of two autistic sons, shared her experience of being forced to sleep in her car due to unpaid rent. She later received assistance from the Coalition of Independents and other supporters. While shelter stays are typically limited to two weeks, extensions are often granted for vulnerable individuals, including pregnant women and Family Island residents in Nassau for medical treatment. However, some residents refuse to leave after their time expires, as seen in the recent dispute at Poinciana Inn, which is now under judicial review. Smith emphasized that officials work with residents to develop exit plans, but the weakening of family support networks has exacerbated the crisis. ‘Many people are homeless, but they won’t come forward until you encounter them and hear their stories,’ she said.
分类： society
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#EyeOnMelissa: JCF ready to protect key infrastructure if Melissa hits says Blake
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the imminent threat posed by Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaica’s Police Commissioner, Dr. Kevin Blake, has announced the full activation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) hurricane preparedness plan. The JCF has mobilized its resources to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure public safety as the storm approaches the island’s southeastern coast.
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#EyeOnMelissa: PM tells police go after persons who prey on telecoms infrastructure
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has issued a stern warning against individuals exploiting the chaos of Tropical Storm Melissa to steal or damage telecommunications equipment. Speaking at a press briefing at Jamaica House on Friday afternoon, Holness emphasized that such acts severely disrupt public safety, government operations, and the economy, warranting the full force of the law. He highlighted the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, where significant theft of fuel and telecoms equipment, rather than the hurricane itself, caused widespread communication outages. Holness reiterated the government’s commitment to amending relevant laws to impose stricter penalties and criminalize these acts. He also directed the security forces, including Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake, to prioritize protecting critical infrastructure during the storm. Holness stressed that those attempting to exploit the disaster for personal gain would face the harshest legal consequences.
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WATCH: Frantic buying empties store shelves across Corporate Area amid storm fears
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Tropical Storm Melissa looms over the Caribbean, Jamaicans in the Corporate Area have rushed to stores, leaving shelves bare in preparation for the potential impact. Despite the tropical storm warning and hurricane watch issued since Thursday morning, some shoppers expressed doubts about the necessity of their frantic purchases, citing past experiences where storms veered away from the island. Andrew Sinclair, a customer at the National Bakery on Balmoral Avenue, voiced his skepticism, recalling instances where warnings led to excessive spending without significant consequences. However, most residents are erring on the side of caution, with long lines and increased sales reported at supermarkets and bakeries. At Brooklyn Supermarket, Jamela Anderson remained unfazed, expecting only heavy rain, while Diana Mendez stocked up on essentials for her granddaughter but expressed concern over the storm’s slow movement. Richie Bramwell, shopping with his son, focused on canned goods and emphasized the importance of preparedness, despite feeling minimally threatened. Stores like MegaMart and Sampers Supermarket reported unprecedented activity, with items like bottled water, canned food, and batteries flying off the shelves. Customers like Omar Mills expressed hope for minimal damage and the safety of all residents as the island braces for Melissa’s arrival.
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24-Hour Shelter Approved for Gender-Based Violence Survivors
In a significant move to combat gender-based violence, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit the creation of a 24-hour shelter for survivors. This initiative, developed through a collaborative public-NGO partnership with Integrated Health Outreach (IHO), underscores the government’s dedication to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and safeguarding vulnerable populations. The shelter will provide a secure environment for survivors, coupled with essential services such as counseling, vocational training, and empowerment programs aimed at fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that this partnership leverages IHO’s professional expertise alongside government resources, ensuring a sustainable and effective support system. The shelter is part of a broader strategy to enhance social protection measures, including mental health services, family counseling, and community outreach. It will operate in tandem with social services, health agencies, and law enforcement to deliver a cohesive national response to gender-based violence.
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Cooperation is key for securing children’s well-being, say officials
Dominica has initiated a groundbreaking Co-Parenting Campaign aimed at enhancing the welfare of children in foster care, as announced by Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services. The campaign, which commenced on Wednesday, is set to continue until February 2026. Dr. Williams highlighted that approximately 160 children are currently enrolled in Dominica’s foster care program. While some of these placements offer long-term stability, many serve as transitional arrangements, providing a safe haven for children as their families work towards reunification. Dr. Williams emphasized the critical role of effective co-parenting in these scenarios, urging biological parents, foster parents, and social workers to maintain open communication and shared responsibility for the children’s emotional and developmental well-being. The campaign underscores the principle that every child deserves consistent love, guidance, and care, regardless of their living arrangements. It promotes healthy co-parenting practices founded on communication, respect, and stability. Nicole Toussaint-Jno Baptiste, Child Protection Officer at the Department of Social Services, echoed these sentiments, noting a rise in the number of children being raised in households where parents are separated or divorced. She pointed out that the breakdown of co-parenting relationships often leads to emotional difficulties for children, impacting their growth and development. The campaign, themed ‘Apart but United- A Co-Parenting Campaign,’ aims to convey that separated parents can still collaborate effectively in the best interest of their child.
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Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Approves Surveillance Cameras for All Public Schools
In a decisive move to address rising security concerns, the government has sanctioned the immediate deployment and enhancement of surveillance camera systems in all national public schools. This initiative comes in the wake of a surge in break-ins and security breaches at educational institutions, which have raised alarms among educators and parents alike. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, confirmed that the Cabinet has earmarked funds for the procurement and installation of these systems, underscoring the administration’s dedication to bolstering safety and safeguarding school assets. Merchant emphasized that this project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to fortify security within the education sector, ensuring the protection of both students and school property. The Ministry of Education will spearhead the initiative, with installations slated to commence without delay. Recent incidents of vandalism and theft have intensified demands for robust security measures, prompting this swift action. The advanced surveillance system will feature real-time monitoring and recording functionalities, enabling authorities to deter unauthorized access and respond promptly to potential threats. Officials highlighted that this security upgrade complements other significant investments in the education sector, including infrastructure improvements and the integration of technology-driven learning environments, all aimed at enhancing safety and academic outcomes.
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15 Homes to Be Built Under ‘Build on Your Own Land’ Programme
The National Housing and Urban Development Company Limited (NHUDC) has unveiled plans to construct 15 new homes across Antigua and Barbuda as part of its innovative ‘Build on Your Own Land Programme.’ This initiative is designed to assist individuals who already own land but require government-supported construction to develop their properties. The project will span multiple communities, including Painters, Radio Range, Villa, Low Pasture, Clarks Hill, All Saints, Jennings, Quesada Gardens, New Winthrops, McKinnons, Glanvilles, and Herberts. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that the programme is a cornerstone of the government’s broader affordable housing strategy, which seeks to enhance homeownership accessibility while boosting employment in the construction industry. NHUDC is currently inviting qualified contractors to bid for the construction projects, which will be executed on privately owned lands. Unlike conventional government housing schemes, the ‘Build on Your Own Land’ initiative empowers individuals to build homes on their existing properties, with design and financing assistance provided by NHUDC. The company has indicated that the programme will be expanded in phases, aligning with national efforts to increase housing availability and foster community development.
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Government renames market, polyclinic, road and other public facilities
Barbados is embarking on a significant initiative to rename several public spaces in honor of distinguished citizens who have made enduring contributions to the nation’s progress. This move underscores the government’s commitment to celebrating individuals who have shaped the country’s development through their service, leadership, and dedication.
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Antigua Government to Host National Workshop for Building Contractors
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to host a national workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of building contractors across the nation. Scheduled to take place shortly after the Independence celebrations, the event is being spearheaded by the Minister for Works. Contractors from all regions of Antigua and Barbuda are expected to participate in this comprehensive initiative. The workshop will delve into essential topics such as contract preparation, construction standards, project management, quality control, collaboration with government agencies, and workforce development. Senior Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister for Health, Wellness, and the Environment, will deliver presentations during the sessions. According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, the workshop aims to foster stronger partnerships between the government and the private construction sector. It will also identify training and certification needs and explore financing initiatives to support small and medium-sized contractors in expanding their businesses and competing more effectively for both government and private sector projects. This initiative is part of the Cabinet’s ongoing efforts to modernize the construction industry, ensuring greater efficiency, safety, and quality in national development projects.