On the occasion of the International Men’s Day, Minister for Employment and Social affairs, Mrs. Patricia Francourt paid a well-deserved visit to the Night Shelter, North East Point. She was accompanied by Principal Secretary, Mrs. Linda William-Melanie and other staff from the department.
The evening saw the participation of two NGO’s; Kindness and Compassion and Melodi Lafanmiy, the Anglican Church and a group of young male soldiers from Seychelles Defence Forces, who were eager to engage in one to one, man to man conversation with those present. In another corner, the service users were being treated to a free haircut by Mr. Arthur Toule-Thilathier.
During her welcoming remarks, Mrs. Maria Doudee, the Night Shelter’s Administrator, made mention of all partners who have, throughout the year, have contributed towards the programme.
In her address, Minister Francourt expressed the joy she feels when learning about progress made by each homeless man on their journey towards reintegration. She reassured service users of her Ministry’s ongoing efforts to assist and facilitate the process. She also asked them to cooperate and accept all helping hands.
The evening continued with special blessings by Reverend Brian Volcere, who also underlined the need for collaborative spirit in such work. Melodi Lafanmiy Association officially announced their intention to adopt the Night Shelter for continued cleaning and spiritual activities. It is to be noted that the Melodi Lafanmiy Association had carried out cleaning of the facilities and grounds earlier during the week.
Mrs. Beryl Dodin from Kindness and Compassion donated toiletries to each service user, which distributed by the soldiers from Seychelles Defence Forces.
Minister and her delegation then went round to meet and engage with service users.
The Night Shelter provides psychosocial support for homeless men who are willing to embark on a reintegration programme, ran by the Social Affairs Department.
