Health ministry recognises workers, trainees et al at centre for persons with disabilities

It was a time of celebration for persons living with disabilities this past Monday, as family and friends of the differently-abled attended an award ceremony at the Sir Vivian Richards stadium
Recipients of the awards included trainees and employees of the National Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Disabilities, as well as parents who have been dedicated contributors to and supporters of the centre’s programmes for many years.
Awards for dedicated service were presented to trainees/workers Sylvester Michael, June Dubery, Devon Joseph, Francine Smith, Daniele Johnson, Wendell Haywood, and Omaurie Carlton.
Four parents were also awarded for their service, namely Merle Havercombe, Janice Samuel, Christine Anthony, and Lillian Graham.
Acting Assistant Secretary of Health Institutions, Susan Lake presented the awards and conveyed greetings on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment to the more than 70 attendees.
“Season’s greetings to all of you on behalf of the Minister of Health as well as the entire ministry,” Lake told the gathering.
“We love all of you and I want you to know that every one of us is disabled in some form but do not let that stop you. Continue to show love and we are going to empower you. Have a blessed Christmas all of you,” she added.
The National Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for Persons with Disabilities is a government entity with responsibility for those living with disabilities throughout Antigua and Barbuda. The centre also functions as a trainee facility.
Presently, there are persons receiving training in handicraft, painting and agriculture, but other initiatives such as information technology, carpentry, and masonry are slated to begin some time during 2019.