A dream became actuality for 20-year-old regulation pupil Chelsia Reynolds, who, after years of hardship, now has a model new, totally furnished, two-bedroom home, courtesy of the Indigent Housing Programme underneath the Ministry of Native Authorities and Group Improvement.
The College of the West Indies, Mona pupil and her household, who’ve lengthy relied on Poor Reduction help, acquired the life-changing two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit in an emotional handover ceremony on February 27.
Reynolds’ journey to dwelling possession began in 2023, when she met portfolio minister Desmond McKenzie whereas being honoured as a high Caribbean Superior Proficiency Examination achiever by the Board of Supervision.
In a heartfelt dialog, she revealed her household’s dire dwelling situations and their determined want for a protected and steady dwelling. Moved by her story and her dedication to rise above adversity, McKenzie promise to assist.
Final Friday, an emotional Reynolds devoted the brand new dwelling to her hard-working mom, who raised her alone and made unimaginable sacrifices to make sure her success.
She additionally famous that the unit was a tribute to her mom, Dorraine Powell, as she performed the roles of each dad and mom in her life.
“My mom has been each my dad and mom since a younger age. She has been discovering my faculty price, lunch price, bus fare, each price. She’s been every thing to me; and with out her I’d not be standing right here at this time,” an emotional Reynolds mentioned.
“I all the time inform her, ‘Mommy, this home just isn’t for me; this home is for you. I would like you to dwell comfortably. I would like you to relaxation. You have performed sufficient,'” she mentioned.
Her phrases introduced many within the crowd to tears, highlighting the deep struggles she and her mom endured earlier than this life-changing second.
McKenzie praised Reynolds’ resilience, noting that she might have turned to simpler however questionable means to realize success; however as a substitute, stayed true to her values.
“This can be a younger woman who might have chosen different means to get what she desires. She by no means allowed circumstances to disclaim who she is, the place she’s coming from, and the place she desires to go; and at this time she’s a dwelling testimony to that,” he mentioned.
