SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION BRINGS CHEERS FOR CHRISTMAS – RONALD MUSSINGTON GIFTED A NEW HOME FROM HAPPI

The Ministry of Social Transformation handed over a newly constructed home valued at $150,000 to Ronald Mussington of Villa.

This initiative is part of the government’s Home Advancement Programme for the Poor and the Indigent (HAPPI).

The handover ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who is also the Parliamentary Representative for the area and Minister of Health, Wellness, Social Transformation and the Environment, Sir Molwyn Joseph.

Head of the Social Protection Board, Ms. Marie Baltimore and Founder of HAPPI, Veldon Raguette were also in attendance.

Prime Minister Browne, speaking at the ceremony, expressed his commitment to furthering the goals of the HAPPI while emphasizing the government’s dedication to scaling up the initiative in the coming year, with plans to construct more houses to benefit the nation’s most vulnerable.

He also announced that the home will be outfitted with free broadband internet, which will be provided for up to one year, further improving the quality of life for Mussington and his family.

The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s innovative approach to the program, which involves engaging skilled prisoners in the construction process.

This initiative not only increases the number of houses built but also provides valuable opportunities for prisoners to develop skills that will aid in their reintegration into society.

Minister Joseph echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, emphasizing that the programme is about more than just building houses—it is about transforming lives.

He noted that the involvement of skilled prisoners in the construction process is a testament to the government’s commitment to rehabilitation and second chances.

These individuals are learning valuable skills that will prepare them for life beyond incarceration, ensuring they can contribute positively to society once released.

Minister Joseph praised the program’s holistic approach, which uplifts not only the recipients of the homes but also those involved in their construction.

Head of the Social Protection Board, Marie Baltimore, highlighted the collaborative effort required to make the program successful. She commended the Ministry and its partners for their tireless work in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable.

Ms. Baltimore reiterated the Board’s ongoing commitment to identifying and supporting individuals and families in need, ensuring that the program continues to reach those who require it most.

Founder of HAPPI, Veldon Raguette, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Ministry, and the Social Protection Board for their unwavering support.

He described this partnership as the most impactful collaboration in all of his years of being involved in charity work, emphasizing the life-changing impact the program has had on individuals like Mr. Mussington. Raguette called on corporate and community partners to continue supporting initiatives that create sustainable change.

As the new homeowner, Mussington shared his gratitude for the generosity and support he has received. He expressed that this home represents a fresh start and a brighter future for him and his family.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment by all stakeholders to expand the Happy Home Advancement Program, ensuring that more families can benefit from this transformative initiative in the years to come.

The Ministry of Social Transformation would like to thank Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, Townhouse Furnishing, King’s Casino, Cool and Smooth, Furniture Gallery, Louis Brothers, leslie Barnes, Sunny Limited and the Harrison Centre for their sponsorship which made this a success.