The New Beginnings Transit Home, an institution managed by the Ministry of Equity, Labour, Gender, Elderly Affairs, Social Justice and Consumer Welfare, marked 15 years of service to vulnerable children by honouring the dedicated staff whose commitment underpins the institution’s mission.
As part of the anniversary observance, staff of the Transit Home were treated to a special appreciation luncheon hosted by the Bel Jou Hotel, aimed at recognizing their hard work, dedication, and daily sacrifices in caring for children in transition.
Manager of the Transit Home, Bernice Francis, explained that while the official anniversary fell on January 18, the early celebration created an opportunity to focus on staff morale and recognition.
“We had the opportunity to come together early because of a very wonderful invitation from the Bel Jou Hotel—to celebrate our staff and the hard work that they are doing,” Francis said.
She emphasized that partnerships with the private sector play a critical role not only in supporting the children at the Home, but also in uplifting the staff who provide care under often challenging circumstances.
“We have stakeholders and we have partners. Bel Jou was very integral in showing love to our children, especially during Christmas. They came in, they played with the children, they brought gifts,” Francis noted, adding that Windjammer Hotel, Invest Saint Lucia, Mannee’s Bakery, and other partners have consistently supported the Home.
Highlighting the importance of this support, Francis stressed that collaboration is essential to the institution’s success. “We cannot do everything on our own and the Ministry cannot do everything on its own. Their support helps bring love and cheer. Without them, it would not have been as merry,” she said.
For Dean La Force, Manager of the Bel Jou Hotel, supporting the Transit Home aligns with the property’s long-standing commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.
“Bel Jou Hotel has always been a property that looks forward to giving back to the community we serve. It’s not just corporate responsibility—it’s a call of duty,” La Force stated.
He described the partnership as deeply meaningful, particularly after gaining insight into the work of the Home and the experiences of the children and caregivers.
“Understanding what these children are going through, the transition they are experiencing was very heartwarming for us,” La Force said. “Supporting the Home and the people who care for these children was something we felt strongly about.” La Force also reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to continued involvement.
As the Transit Home marks 15 years of service, newly appointed Minister for Equity Hon. Emma Hippolyte has just wrapped up a familiarization visit to the institution, commending staff for their tireless efforts at helping to nurture and protect some of the nation’s more vulnerable young people and vowing to provide all available resources to the institution, as it seeks to meet its mandate.
The 15-year anniversary celebration serves as a reminder that strong social protection institutions are built on dedicated people and that recognizing and supporting caregivers is central to delivering quality care to the nation’s most vulnerable children.