There were emotional scenes in Five Islands this week as the government’s Home Assistance Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) handed over a fully renovated home to a family of more than 25 people, marking the largest project undertaken by the initiative to date.

Programme Coordinator Inspector Veldon Raggette said the scale of the renovation required careful planning and strong collaboration to restore dignity and provide proper living conditions for the large household. The project, carried out with support from the Social Protection Board and corporate partners, included major structural upgrades and the installation of multiple bathroom facilities to improve privacy and functionality.

A significant contribution came from Kings Casino, which committed to outfitting the home’s bathroom facilities. Raggette said the support demonstrated the strength of public-private partnerships driving the programme’s success.

HAPI operates under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne within the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, headed by Rawdon Turner. Raggette also acknowledged the support of Social Protection Board Coordinator Mary Baltimore, along with volunteers, corporate sponsors and inmates from His Majesty’s Prison who assisted with construction work.

Family members expressed gratitude during the handover ceremony, saying the improved conditions would bring greater comfort and stability. The project underscores HAPI’s mission to provide safe housing for vulnerable residents and highlights community collaboration in addressing social needs.