New state-of-the-art homeless shelter to be named after Desmond McKenzie
KINGSTON, Jamaica –The new shelter for homeless people on King Street in downtown Kingston is to be named after Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie.
A resolution for the homeless shelter at 163-167 King Street to bear McKenzie’s name was approved at a Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) council meeting last week, citing what it said is the lasting impact McKenzie has had on people islandwide, while performing duties as mayor of Kingston and St Andrew,
The resolution called for the homeless shelter – which is to be officially opened later in May – to be named the Desmond McKenzie Transitional Centre for the Homeless in recognition of his selfless service to the poor and vulnerable.
Some of the councillors recalled instances islandwide where McKenzie was referred to as the “Mayor of Jamaica” when he was Mayor of Kingston and St Andrew between.2003-2012.
Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) councillor Alvin Francis (Mavis Bank division), who moved the resolution, said that McKenzie’s concern for the poor, homeless and other vulnerable groups was unequalled.
JLP Councillor Tosha Schwapp (Stony Hill Division), who seconded the resolution, said that McKenzie was “a man of vision.”
She disclosed that the state-of-the-art adult traditional facility will have a dietician and physiotherapist. A psychiatrist will also be available at the centre for persons needing this service, Schwapp said.
JLP Councillor Beverly Prince (Cassia Park division) reminded the council that McKenzie, who conceptualised the adult traditional facility, “come from Backawall.”
“It shows that you can be of significant worth no matter where you come from,” Prince said.
People’s National Party councillor (Whitfield Town division) Eugene Kelly said that he supported the resolution but was disappointed that it had been crafted without seeking the support of the minority councillors.
He said that the homeless centre was important and would help in the recovery of persons using the service.
Andrew Swaby, the minority leader, expressed the hope that the facilities at the Homeless Centre will also be provided for Golden Age homes.
The homeless population in Jamaica has been estimated to be in excess of 2,000 of which at least half is in Kingston and St Andrew
