In an effort to enhance and expand the Department’s food voucher assistance programme, Nevis’ Department of Social Services has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture, to bring greater benefit to the persons it serves.

The initiative, which began as a relief program during the Covid-19 pandemic, has been rebranded to the Social Services Agricultural Products Food Voucher Program.

Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture – Hon. Eric Evelyn, on July 21st commended Mrs. Maynard and her staff for championing Social Services on Nevis. He lauded the collaboration between Social Development and Agriculture, saying he was heartened that the program has evolved into one that local producers can benefit from.

Director of Social Services, Mrs. Sandra Maynard explained that the programme has been retooled to include community-based farmers and agricultural agencies as part of the network from which persons on the program are able to purchase food items.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Mrs. Shelisa Martin Clarke, said the program has been a transformative force in encouraging and fostering healthier food consumption among participants in the program. The Department of Social Services will fully roll out the new voucher program in August.