Enhancement underway at the Night Shelter

Shortly after assuming her post as Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud visited some of the institutions that fall within the ambit of her Ministry.

One such institution is the Night Shelter. Following a critical assessment, it was determined that major restructuring was needed.

During a virtual press conference on Monday, Minister Persaud disclosed that rehabilitation works on the physical structure of the facility have already commenced, while disclosing that in the new year further enhancement works will be executed.

“I want to look at the conditions for those persons who utilise the facility. Even though persons are homeless, there are considered indigent population, we want to ensure they have dignity when they are within the Night Shelter,” Minister Persaud stated.

Dr. Persaud noted that the Ministry will be reviewing the living conditions, the delivery of services and medical care provided to the residents, whilst partnering with other agencies to effectively transform the facility.

These measures, the Minister noted, will be complemented by a programme which aims at reducing the number of persons on the streets and integrate them into the Night Shelter.

Minister Persaud said the public will soon be further informed of this initiative as well as plans for the Hugo Chavez Rehabilitation Centre. 

Meanwhile, in keeping with the restrictions of the COVID-19 protocols, the Minister reported that the Night Shelter is operating at a reduced capacity of about 50 percent to ensure the residents are protected from the virus.