On May 27, the KSAMC, through its Poor Relief Department, hosted the first-of-its-kind strategic participatory workshop under the theme, "From Street to Stability." The workshop brought together representatives from government agencies, healthcare institutions, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, non-governmental organizations, and community partners to strengthen collaboration and develop sustainable solutions to homelessness.

The workshop facilitated meaningful discussions on policy development, mental health support, rehabilitation, reintegration, and public safety, while reinforcing the importance of a coordinated and data-driven approach to addressing homelessness. Stakeholders from the Board of Supervision, the Planning Institute of Jamaica, UHWI, KPH, the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Food For The Poor, HEART/NSTA Trust, and several other organizations committed to advancing tangible actions, including greater policy integration and enhanced inter-agency cooperation. These efforts will help position Kingston and St. Andrew as a national model for compassionate, effective, and sustainable responses to homelessness.

The KSAMC remains committed to supporting initiatives aimed at reducing homelessness across the municipality by assisting vulnerable individuals in transitioning from the streets into more stable and supportive environments. This forms an important part of our broader efforts to maintain order, improve public spaces, and enhance the quality of life for all residents of Kingston and St. Andrew.

We commend the Acting Inspector of Poor, Ms. Donna-Gaye Brady, who has been doing a tremendous job; Councillor Charmaine Daniels, Chair of the Poor Relief Committee; the Members of the Poor Relief Committee; the staff of the Poor Relief Department; and all participating organizations for their invaluable contributions to this successful and impactful initiative.

We also welcome the announcement by the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, the Hon. Desmond McKenzie, of the allocation of $55 million in funding for the Marie Atkins Night Shelter, made during his recent Sectoral Debate presentation.

This funding will support criticalrepairs and upgrades to the facility, strengthening its capacity to providecare and support to some of the municipality's most vulnerable residents.

Importantly, the improvements will enable the shelter to accommodate additional persons, including individuals currently housed at the Church Street facility.

Once restoration of the Marie Atkins Shelter is completed, and persons are transferred there, from the Church Street facility, we will then return the Church Street facility to its intended role as an emergency shelter during hurricanes and other disasters, there by enhancing the municipality's emergency response capacity.

This allocation represents a significant investment in social protection and reflects a continued commitment to improving the services available to vulnerable citizens. We commend Minister McKenzie for his support of this important initiative and for his continued advocacy on behalf of those most in need.

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