-can now cater for 250 residents
The Night Shelter has been expanded to cater for 250 persons; providing them with meals, medical check-ups and 24-hour accommodation.
The Arapaima Street, East La Penitence Shelter initially only provided sleeping accommodations for homeless and indigent persons. However, a new wing was recently built to accommodate 80 additional persons. Administrator Harry Dat Tilku told the Government Information Agency (GINA) on Tuesday that the number of destitute persons at the facility had increased and now stands at between 180 and 200 persons.
The facility provides three meals per day to each resident along with basic supplies such as bed sheets, mosquito nets, toothbrushes and other toiletries.
He said the 22-member staff “performs every task” from finding employment for able-bodied residents, to arranging meals, settling disputes and administering medication. A doctor has also volunteered to do check-ups every Thursday.
Staff also assist residents to secure their birth certificates and other relevant identification documents, Tilku said.
“We were able to secure jobs like labourers and security officers for 21 of these persons…but they must be of sound mind and able bodied. We do not accept them if they refuse to take their medication,” Tilku said. He noted that some residents who acquire jobs eventually return home.
According to Tilku, residents also benefit from counselling sessions on issues such as domestic violence and conflict resolution which is facilitated by an on-site social worker. There are also weekly church services on the grounds that residents can attend.
The Shelter also boasts a televisions set for entertainment and residents also participate in games such as football, dominoes, chess and cards.
The Shelter also operates a bus service which transports residents from their respective locations to the facility.
According to GINA, the Ministry of Human Services established the Shelter in 2001 to provide a temporary and safe haven for street dwellers that included material support and counselling. The building had an initial holding capacity of 150 with separate living quarters for men and women. It started its 24-hour service in October 2006.
