The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services, through its National Social Development Programme (NSDP), has taken swift and decisive action to assist Akennie Mc Cleod and his family of Esperance Village, San Fernando, following a recent media report highlighting their deprived living conditions.
The report, which aired on Sunday May 25, 2025, brought national attention to the family’s need for improved housing and overall support. In response, Ministry personnel were immediately deployed, and a preliminary assessment was conducted on Monday May 26, 2025.
The assessment confirmed that the eight-member household is in need of several forms of assistance. As a result, the Ministry has been working closely with the family to facilitate applications for a range of home repair grants available under the NSDP, including:
- Up to $15,000 in building materials under the Minor House Repair Programme
- Sanitary Plumbing Assistance to a limit of $15,000 in materials
- House Wiring Assistance to a limit of $15,000 for materials
In addition to these interventions, the Social Welfare Division is assessing the family for food support and essential household items. The National Family Services Division has also been engaged to provide psychosocial support.
The Ministry remains committed to empowering vulnerable families and addressing social challenges through targeted support and services. Persons in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the Ministry via its network of service centres or visit www.social.gov.tt for more information.