The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment, in partnership with the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), recently conducted an orientation event via the Koudmen Sent Lisi Program aimed at empowering and uplifting some of the island’s most vulnerable families.
Held at the National Skills Development Centre (NSDC), the activity brought together participants from across Saint Lucia to explore the program’s vision, objectives, and opportunities for involvement.
Participants received an in-depth overview of the program’s core mission, which focuses on tackling the socio-economic challenges indigent and vulnerable households face.
Program Coordinator Keisha St. Catherine explained that the initiative aimed to equip these families with the tools to promote self-sufficiency, create sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen community ties.
“Koudmen Sent Lisi offers more than just immediate relief; it’s about fostering long-term empowerment. By focusing on building financial independence and practical life skills, the program ensures that individuals and families can achieve stability. The ultimate goal is for participants to not only survive but to thrive within their communities.”
Beneficiaries of the Koudmen Sent Lisi Program are chosen from the Public Assistance Program (PAP), with a focus on several key objectives such as poverty alleviation and capacity building.
St. Catherine noted that the orientation marks the first step in what is expected to be a transformative journey for participants and subsequently communities.
“In addition to addressing immediate needs, the Koudmen Sent Lisi Program emphasizes mental health support, financial literacy, and vocational training. These components work together to give vulnerable households the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty. It’s a holistic approach that strengthens both individual resilience and community ties.”
In its ongoing efforts, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, through initiatives like the Koudmen Sent Lisi Program, continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient Saint Lucia.
SOURCE: Ministry of Equity