WESTMORELAND, Jamaica – Two families of Belvedere, Westmoreland are now homeowners courtesy of the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development’s Indigent Housing Programme.

At a handover ceremony on Friday, October11, Minister of Local Government Desmond McKenzie delivered the keys for a two-bedroom home and a studio unit.

“This is an obligation, this is a responsibility of local government to provide indigent housing solutions through the Poor Relief Department and the various municipalities,” McKenzie said.

“We have built more than 100 of these housing solutions across Jamaica. Right here in Westmoreland we have spent over $30 million,” he added.

Lloyd East, one of the recipients, expressed his gratitude.

“Thanks, thanks to the prime minister… thanks to the Honourable Desmond McKenzie,” East said.

The Indigent Housing Programme was designed to address challenges experienced by the poor and most vulnerable citizens in acquiring homes.

Potential beneficiaries must demonstrate ownership of the property on which the house is to be built or provide documentation that they are lawfully entitled to tenure on such property.

The houses are concrete structures and feature sloped roofs that enable rainwater harvesting.