In a decisive action, the government has doubled its subvention to the St Lucia Crisis Centre, effectively addressing the rising demands and evolving needs of local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and non-profit entities.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, with the full backing of the Cabinet, has increased the government subvention to the St. Lucia Crisis Centre from $72,000 annually to $240,000 annually.
This substantial increase will empower the St Lucia Crisis Centre to better meet its operating costs and significantly enhance care services for those in need.
During a recent media briefing, Gender Minister Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte emphasized the long-standing operation of the Crisis Centre, which has been managed largely on a voluntary basis. The caretakers have now sought assistance from the government, as the property owners have requested them to vacate the premises.
“The primary role of the Crisis Centre is to support women affected by domestic violence, who require assistance from the facility,” stated the minister.
In light of this, Dr. Poyotte pointed out the urgent need for a “new location.”
With a new board in place, the Crisis Centre has submitted a comprehensive proposal to the government. She clarified that the previous allocation of $72,000 per year was specifically for rental payments and staff support, and this has now been elevated to $240,000.
This funding will enable them to secure their own space and increase staff capacity, thereby addressing the urgent needs of individuals facing domestic violence situations.
It is crucial to highlight that NGOs and non-profit organizations are essential in bridging the gaps that government services cannot always fill. The struggle to meet operating expenses, further exacerbated by decreasing donations, has made it increasingly challenging for organizations like the St Lucia Crisis Centre to sustain their vital services.
Numerous Saint Lucians dependent on the St Lucia Crisis Centre for support hail from local communities.
A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) asserts, “They live among us and certainly deserve access to the care required to rebuild their lives. The management, support staff, and volunteers at the St Lucia Crisis Centre also need access to the necessary resources to provide the best care possible to those who seek their help.”
The OPM also said that under the leadership of PM Pierre, government subventions to multiple NGOs and non-profits have seen significant increases since Budget 2022/23. This administration is deeply attuned to the realities faced by ordinary Saint Lucians and the NGOs, non-profits, and philanthropists who tirelessly devote their time and resources to assist at-risk and vulnerable groups. They can count on unwavering support from the Pierre-led Administration.
Additionally, Dr. Poyotte announced the establishment of a Transition Committee for the Women’s Support Centre. “The Women’s Support Centre serves as a critical refuge for women affected by domestic violence,” she explained. “Often, these women have children and require a safe environment to ensure that the perpetrator cannot reach them.”
The Gender Minister further elaborated that the facility provides a supportive home-like environment where victims can work and ensure their children can attend school, all while maintaining their safety.
Support for these victims continues until their situations are resolved, whether legally or otherwise.
Minister Poyotte confirmed the completion of a review of the Women’s Support Centre, which includes recommendations for a Women’s Transition Committee designed to transform the Centre into a registered organization or business.
Furthermore, she emphasized that the transition must result in the Centre operating independently as a non-government department within six months, and she looks forward to witnessing this successful evolution.