One person has taken up temporary shelter at the Graham’s Hall Primary School, which the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has prepared to house squatters that authorities have been trying to get to vacate lands at Success.
The man, who gave his name as “Oliver,” told this newspaper that he built a shelter and began residing in the squatting area in February after family issues resulted in him being thrown out from the only home he knew.
However, the 23-year-old gardener explained that he had no other option other than to accept the help given by CDC after authorities began flooding the land and by extension his home. He said his belongings were also affected.
Oliver said after being homeless he was assisted by neighbours and finally made the decision to begin squatting on the Success land, where he previously used to accompany friends to catch caimans.
Although he has since take up shelter at the school, he said others squatting in the area were keeping his belongings until he finds a fixed residence.
CDC Director General Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Craig yesterday said two families that previously indicated the need for shelter yesterday made the decision to reside at relatives instead.
Craig also noted that the agency, which had set up 48 beds up to Monday, subsequently managed to provide additional cots, family units and more food supplies for the residents.
Craig was unsure whether the CDC would be making another visit to those still residing at the Success area, but stated that the facility is available to accommodate the residents.
When Stabroek News visited the school yesterday, it observed that the CDC had also provided face masks and sanitizers to ensure the safety of those who opt to stay there, while additional preparations were being made.
