Ribbon cut at ʽlifeline’ centre for young adults ageing out of care
A transitional living programme for young people leaving the care system was officially opened today.
Tinee Furbert, the Minister of Social Development and Seniors, was joined by Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, as well as other dignitaries and members of the public at Garrison View in St George’s.
She described development of the Independent Living Programme – which has capacity for six men and six women aged between 18 and 24 – as a “collaborative initiative”.
Ms Furbert said: “All involved in this project have been diligently working to bring this vision to life and today as we cut the ribbon to signify this new beginning, we can do so knowing that this programme is the first of its kind whereby the Government is providing a lifeline and safety net to young adults ageing out of the care of the Director of the Department of Child and Family Services and affording them the best opportunity for success as they transition into adulthood.
“This valuable housing programme will provide guidance, support and allow our young adults to obtain the necessary life skills to be productive, self-sufficient and independent citizens.”
The minister explained that not all foster parents or families could continue to help young people after they turned 18 and those in residential care were often left with no options when there was not a home to go to.
She added: “For these young adults, they are in a vulnerable position and historically this time of transition has been stressful and at times damaging to those who do not have the family or other significant foundation to guide and support them into adulthood.
“Through the Independent Living Programme, the Government has committed to empowering these young adults.
“The programme has been developed in alignment with the Council of Accreditation Standards, and the co-ordinator, Charmaine Richardson, has obtained certification as an independent living specialist.”
Ms Furbert said earlier that about $284,000 was budgeted in 2023-24 for staffing needed for the opening of the centre.
Colonel Burch said: “Continuously protecting and preparing our most vulnerable populations is what this Government has committed to the people of our island.
“While more work can and will be done towards what we strive to accomplish, I can state unequivocally that at every opportunity, the Ministry of Public Works will be there to provide the necessary infrastructure support.”
• To read the ministers’ remarks in full, click on the PDFs under “Related Media”.
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