The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has received a major shipment of building materials valued at more than EC$1 million, marking a significant boost to its housing assistance efforts for poor and indigent households under the Home Advancement Programme for the Poor and Indigent (HAPPI).

The shipment, which includes large quantities of lumber and galvanised roofing materials, arrived on the island on Tuesday and was seen being transported from the port to a secure location ahead of phased distribution to approved beneficiaries.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne described the delivery as a major milestone in the Government’s ongoing commitment to improving housing conditions for the nation’s most vulnerable citizens, noting that the volume of materials is unprecedented.

“I believe it is the single largest amount of building material to be imported in the country at any given point for this type of purpose,” the Prime Minister said.

He added that the shipment represents only the first phase of a sustained programme of investment in housing, with additional purchases planned throughout the year and in subsequent years.

“This is just the start. There will be several additional purchases made during this year, and the programme will continue annually until we see significant improvement in the housing stock—not only through new homes, but also through repairs,” Browne explained.

Minister for Social and Urban Transformation Rawdon Turner also welcomed the arrival of the materials, describing it as a critical step forward for the HAPPI initiative and a clear signal of the Government’s intent to deliver tangible assistance.

“The Prime Minister has given me a clear mandate to ensure that every poor or indigent person in this country will receive an intervention this year to improve their lives and the lives of their family members,” Minister Turner said.

He encouraged eligible residents to apply for assistance through the Social Protection Board, outlining that the process includes completing an application form followed by a site inspection to assess eligibility and determine the level of support required. Once approved, building materials will be delivered directly to homeowners, and where necessary, estimates will be prepared to guide the repair or construction work.

Minister Turner further stressed that the programme is non-partisan and open to all qualifying residents, regardless of political affiliation, emphasizing that its sole purpose is to assist those most in need.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda says the initiative forms part of its broader social protection strategy aimed at strengthening communities, improving living conditions, and ensuring greater housing security for vulnerable citizens across the country.