The Government of Antigua and Barbuda on Thursday officially commissioned the Kevorn Ettienne Centre, a newly constructed multi-million-dollar facility designed to provide care and support services for differently-abled members of society.
The building is located within the compound of the former Holberton Hospital and has been named in honour of former Care Project resident Kevorn Ettienne, whose quiet contributions and presence left a lasting impression on staff and fellow residents.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health Stacey Gregg-Paige addressed the commissioning ceremony, describing the facility as a critical addition to the country's health and social support infrastructure, particularly for individuals requiring long-term care. She emphasised that the centre forms part of a broader continuum of support available to vulnerable individuals and their families.
"This is not an adjunct to the health system; it is an essential component of it," Gregg-Paige said, adding that the facility reflects a structured and sustained national approach to care.
Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph described the decision to name the centre after Ettienne as both meaningful and fitting. Despite facing significant physical challenges during his time at the former Care Project, Ettienne remained engaged and contributed where he could. The minister recalled that Ettienne even assisted during the construction phase of the facility, volunteering from his wheelchair by helping to pass construction blocks and support workers on site.
"In his own way, he was helpful to build what would become his home, though he did not live to see its completion," Joseph said.
The minister also extended gratitude to the partners whose financial contributions helped bring the project to fruition. These included the Jumby Bay Fund, Jumby Bay Homeowners, Jumby Bay Island and Company, the Maria Holder Memorial Trust, and Friends of the Care Project.
Melissa Scott, Administrator of the Jumby Bay Fund, also addressed the ceremony. She underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in delivering social infrastructure that directly benefits vulnerable communities.
The commissioning ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting exercise and a tour of the facility.
The Kevorn Ettienne Centre currently accommodates ten residents and provides daycare services for one additional client, marking a significant expansion of specialised care services in Antigua and Barbuda.
