A vulnerable older resident of Labayee, Bexon is now enjoying the comfort, security and dignity of a new home, thanks to a partnership involving the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), Soroptimist International Sent Lisi, the Zion Seventh-day Adventist Church and members of the wider community.

The official hand-over ceremony marked the completion of the first home, under an initiative that has since expanded, and will see the construction of three additional units that will go to vulnerable residents of the community.

The newly constructed dwelling was presented to Mr. Florent Joseph, affectionately known as “Dadas,” whose years of contribution to community life were recognized during the ceremony.

“The handing over of this newly built home is more than the transfer of keys, it is the restoration of dignity, security and belonging for one of our cherished older persons. This home represents not only shelter, but also a symbol of our collective responsibility to protect and uplift those who once carried us. It is our duty as a Ministry and as a nation to ensure that older persons live their later years in comfort and respect,” noted Minister for Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, Hon. Emma Hippolyte.

The Minister also acknowledged former Parliamentarian and former District Representative for Castries South-East Joachim Henry who passionately led the initiative, along with the many partners, volunteers and community members whose contributions transformed the vision into reality.

Saint Lucia Social Development Fund, Executive Director John Victorin, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing housing challenges faced by vulnerable citizens. “The reality is that many Saint Lucians continue to live in poor dwelling conditions, and the resources allocated on an annual basis are often not enough to meet the demand. That is why partnerships like this are so important. When the opportunity was presented to us, we welcomed it because improving the living conditions of vulnerable citizens is a responsibility we all share. If the government, community organizations, churches and citizens work together, we can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” exclaimed Victorin.

Victorin commended partners for ensuring that the home met appropriate standards and encouraged similar initiatives to be replicated in communities across the island.

For the Zion Seventh-day Adventist Church, the project represented a continuation of its longstanding commitment to serving those most in need. “This initiative is rooted in the belief that we must respond to the needs of the most vulnerable among us. What started as the construction of a single home has grown into an initiative that will see four homes delivered to vulnerable residents. That speaks to the power of true partnership and a community committed to the common good. When government, faith-based organizations and citizens come together, lives can be transformed,” remarked  Elder Ben Emmanuel.

Permanent Secretary in the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel, praised the spirit of collaboration that drove the project and expressed gratitude to all who contributed. “We Take on the challenge of continuing that partnership. This initiative demonstrates what is possible when people come together with a shared purpose. While the funding was initially provided for one unit, the generosity and commitment of the community allowed us to stretch those resources even further. We remain committed to strengthening these partnerships so that more vulnerable persons can benefit, and we are grateful to everyone who played a role in making this project a reality and we are open to that continuous engagement with you.”

Dr. Hippolyte Emmanuel also thanked the Joseph family for making the land available for the project and acknowledged the ongoing support network that will continue to surround Mr. Joseph long after the ceremony has ended.

For Dardas and his family, the handing over and ribbon cutting represented far more than a new structure. It signified renewed hope, stability and the assurance that he remains valued by a community that cares.

The initiative stands as a powerful testament to the power of partnership and the Ministry of Equity’s commitment to ensuring that Saint Lucia’s older persons are able to age with dignity, security and respect.