THE MINISTRY OF EQUITY WILL DELIVER TRANSFORMATIONAL INTERVENTIONS THAT WILL BENEFIT THE VULNERABLE AND AT-RISK.

In a reaffirmation of its commitment to the nation’s most vulnerable, the Government of Saint Lucia has announced a bold and compassionate slate of initiatives under the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, as outlined in the historic $2 billion 2025/2026 Budget policy presentation delivered by Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, on April 22.

With an increased allocation of EC$24.5 million, up by EC$4.5 million from last year, the Ministry of Equity is set to deliver targeted, life-transforming interventions that reflect the government’s belief that no citizen should be left behind.

“Government remains concerned about the quality of life of the poor and vulnerable, the differently abled, and older persons,” said Prime Minister Pierre during his address. “This is why we have increased pensions, implemented a minimum wage, and created a Ministry for Persons with Disabilities to address the needs of the differently-abled and vulnerable persons.”

This year, priority will be placed on community-based initiatives, including the expansion of after-school programmes designed to protect young children from the dangers of unsupervised hours and possible exploitation. In partnership with social groups and faith-based organisations, the Ministry of Equity is investing in grassroots solutions that build resilience, empower communities, and reduce poverty at its roots.

A landmark initiative will see the former George Charles Secondary School transformed into a Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre for underprivileged youth, built on the principles of care, rehabilitation, and opportunity.

The Ministry of Equity’s social protection mandate remains unwavering. In alignment with international standards, Saint Lucia is advancing Foster Care and Adoption Systems that reflect the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Additionally, monthly public assistance payments continue to be extended to hundreds of economically deprived citizens, especially the elderly.

In a significant step forward, the Home Care Programme for Older Persons (first introduced in 2012) will now offer services throughout the weekend, providing dignity and daily support for the nation's seniors. The ministry also maintains its vital role in psychosocial support, offering counseling and care for individuals facing emotional and mental health challenges.

Under the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), overseen by the Ministry of Equity, efforts to uplift the most vulnerable will intensify. Beyond financial assistance and small-scale community projects, the SSDF will expand its focus on the rehabilitation of young men in conflict with the law, and work to reintegrate incarcerated individuals — a bold move aimed at breaking cycles of marginalization.

The SSDF continues to lead on the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), which has already completed 15 community-driven projects in the areas of education, water and sanitation, livelihoods, and infrastructure. The ongoing 10th BNTF cycle, ending June 2025, remains a testament to development driven by real community needs.

“I, along with my dedicated team at the Ministry of Equity, eagerly look forward to implementing these programmes across communities island-wide,” stated Minister for Equity, Hon. Joachim Henry. “We remain committed to touching the lives of ordinary Saint Lucians with compassion, care and conviction, ensuring that every voice is heard and every need is met.”

Underscoring the importance of evidence-based decision making, the Ministry of Equity is spearheading data collection and statistical analysis through the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS 7) — a crucial step in measuring Saint Lucia’s progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).