Japan supports homeless charity with grant

In a boost to a charity’s efforts to combat homelessness, the Japanese government on Friday donated US$83 000 to enhance emergency shelter facilities, particularly for women and children. 

The initiative, the first of its kind since the Japanese embassy was established here in 2016, is provided under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

At the official launch of the renovation project, held at the BAEH’s headquarters in Spry Street, The City, Japan’s Ambassador to Barbados, Yusuke Miyasaka, underscored the significance of the partnership between the two nations in tackling homelessness.

“This project represents a pivotal moment in our efforts to support vulnerable populations and address critical social issues in Barbados,” Ambassador Miyasaka said. “The GGP programme has had a meaningful impact worldwide, and we believe this initiative will bring similar benefits here, particularly for women and children facing homelessness.”

The renovation of the female dormitory at BAEH will include 14 bunk beds, 46 mattresses, partitions, kitchenettes, and home appliances—enhancements aimed at improving privacy, safety, and living conditions for residents. The initiative also aligns with Japan’s broader commitment to disaster risk reduction, gender equality, and social protection.

Ambassador Miyasaka highlighted Tokyo’s 58-year diplomatic relationship with Bridgetown, noting its continued support for women’s empowerment, social inclusion, and resilience-building efforts.

BAEH President Kemar Saffrey expressed deep gratitude to the Japanese government for recognising the organisation’s work and offering vital support.

“We are thankful to the Embassy of Japan for reaching out, seeing the work we do, and wanting to give back,” Saffrey said. “It was a long but fruitful process, and we know this will make a real difference for the people who rely on our shelter.”

Saffrey stressed the urgent need for expanded facilities, citing a rising number of women and children seeking emergency housing.

“We see more women arriving every day. Some are Barbadian, but many are from the wider Caribbean or beyond, facing financial difficulties or family crises,” he explained. “Our lower bunks are fully occupied, and currently, we have four toddlers in the shelter.”

He also noted that some women arrive with multiple children, recalling a case where a mother sought shelter with seven children. The lack of privacy and inadequate facilities have been a long-standing challenge.

“Even though we are an open dormitory, we know that women need privacy. This renovation will allow for additional private quarters, especially for mothers with children,” Saffrey said. “The inclusion of kitchenettes will also help reduce the burden on staff, allowing women to prepare meals independently.”

The expansion will add additional beds to the existing 90-bed facility, increasing the shelter’s ability to accommodate more vulnerable individuals.

Beyond housing, BAEH has also been working to help shelter residents secure employment. Saffrey revealed that a recent initiative led to 12 individuals securing jobs, with only one person still seeking work due to medical constraints.

“With the exception of one individual, all have gained employment and moved on from the shelter,” he noted.

Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Mark Franklin, expressed deep gratitude to Ambassador Miyasaka for Japan’s commitment to social development initiatives here. He noted that Japan has been a steadfast partner, supporting disaster risk reduction, renewable energy, disability inclusion in sport and training for public officials.

“Your investment in these facilities will directly improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our society,” Franklin said. “These efforts will not only stabilise but empower individuals, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to Barbados’ development.”

He also praised BAEH President Saffrey and his team for their tireless work in assisting the homeless, recalling instances where they provided emergency shelter beyond working hours. (SZB)