Dear Editor,

I am not the most religious follower of current affairs or an ardent observer of the socio-political and economy-related discourse in Jamaica.

However, my heart swells with deep pride whenever I see another house being gifted under the Government’s New Social Housing Programme (NSHP) to Jamaican families in need.

The NSHP, which was established in 2018 by Prime Minister Andrew Holness as the housing component of the Housing, Opportunity, Production and Employment (HOPE) programme, is one of the most important initiatives pursued by any administration since Jamaica gained Independence in 1962.

I gather over 150 Jamaican families and by extension hundreds of Jamaicans have so far benefited from the programme in various constituencies, represented by Members of Parliament from both sides of the political fence.

Adequate shelter and a clean environment are likely to be sources of comfort, security, and pride for any citizen. These are fundamental desires of every human.

I have recently heard calls in the public domain from the private sector to support this housing initiative. I support these calls.

Often politicians are criticised for problems in Jamaica and sometimes deservedly so; however, I strongly believe when good is being done we must acknowledge it.

Therefore, I’d like to publicly say, keep going, Prime Minister, via this housing programme your legacy of looking out for the poor is being built and it’s a good look. Thanks for placing direct focus on this fundamental need of those Jamaicans who are among the most vulnerable.

Jean Clarke

jeanclarke111@yahoo.com