Municipal corporations urged to make provisions for homeless during Christmas

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, has urged municipal corporations to make special provisions for the homeless during the Christmas season.

“I want the local authorities to remember those who are living on the streets of our various communities…ensure that you find them wherever they are and provide for them,” he said.

McKenzie was speaking at the St Ann Municipal Corporation’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Lawrence Park, St Ann’s Bay on Friday.

He also urged the councillors to extend greater responsibility and care for those in need in order to make the festive season more meaningful for the less fortunate.

“Ensure that you serve the people who are depending on you. I want to say to you, give of your best. I want to challenge you to reach out. Not just to those who you know but those who are really in need,” he said.

The minister also appealed to citizens to display kindness, spread cheer and give of themselves to the needy in their communities throughout the Christmas season.

The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony was organised by the Civil Affairs and Community Relations Committee of the St Ann Municipal Corporation.

Prior to the start of the ceremony, the municipal corporation feted scores of children from St Ann’s Bay and adjoining communities.

The children were provided with delectable treats such as cotton candy, ice cream and popcorn and were presented with toys by Santa Claus.

They also enjoyed face-painting, games, and jumping in the bounce-about.

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