Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has stated that about 700 poor and homeless persons across the country are being cared for in 8 drop-in centres.

McKenzie was speaking at the official opening of Hanover’s drop-in centre yesterday (feb 15). The project cost $14 m.

This brings the total number of drop-in centres that are operational to 6. The first one was built in St. Ann, in May last year.

McKenzie said the Hanover drop-in centre will, among other things, provide for 100 registered poor and homeless persons in the parish, who are in need of care.

He said the poor and homeless people of Portland and St. Catherine will be able to have access to a similar facility, in short order.

McKenzie bemoaned the high number of registered poor and homeless in Hanover.

He noted that based on statistics, the poor and homeless men outnumber women, when compared to academic achievements and job placement.