At least 68 homeless persons reunited with families since 2020 - McKenzie

Local Government and Community Development Minister, Desmond McKenzie, says since 2020 more than 68 homeless people have been rehabilitated and reunited with their families.

He said these persons are "now contributing to the growth and development of Jamaica," which he described as a "tremendous achievement".

He was addressing the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) Wellness Day of Care to commemorate World Homeless Day, at the Marie Atkins Night Shelter in Kingston on Thursday.

McKenzie is appealing to family members not to abandon their homeless relatives and help provide safe accommodation for them.

“Many of our homeless friends and families, they come from homes, but some of their families have abandoned them, turned their backs on them and turned them out… . I call on Jamaicans to take personal responsibility for your family,” he said.

McKenzie said there are currently more than 3,000 homeless persons living on the streets.

He noted that the Poor Relief Department continues to work with various partners and stakeholders to extend a helping hand to assist these individuals to improve their circumstances.

“Whether it is caused by unemployment, mental illness or poverty, no one wants to live on the streets where they have no shelter or proper facilities. We, at the KSAMC, are aware of the challenges experienced by members of the homeless community and we are trying our best to do what we can with what we have,” he said.

- Story includes contributions from the JIS

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