In a milestone event for social welfare in The Bahamas, Prime Minister the Hon. Philip Davis officially commissioned the newly renovated Department of Social Services headquarters on Friday, June 20, 2025. The state-of-the-art facility, located in the heart of the inner city, represents a major step forward in providing compassionate, dignified, and efficient service to the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.
Addressing a packed audience of government officials, staff, and community members, Prime Minister Davis underscored that the true measure of the building’s success lies not in its modern features, but in how Bahamians are treated within its walls.
“When I think about what it means to lead this country, it comes down to one thing: how we treat people, especially those who can’t give us anything in return,” he said. “No Bahamian should ever feel ashamed to ask for help. It is the mandate of my government to go the extra mile, cut red tape, and open every door to those who need it most.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that respect, dignity, and compassion must define every interaction at the Department, calling the work of social services staff “sacred” and urging them to serve with the same humanity shown by Jesus when He welcomed and uplifted the downtrodden. He pledged to continue supporting social services to ensure every Bahamian feels seen, heard, and valued.
Minister of Social Services, Information & Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles Laroda, echoed these sentiments, highlighting how the new headquarters will improve the delivery of critical services including temporary housing assistance, food security programs, burial assistance, uniform aid, and counseling services. “This ministry is a 24/7, year-round operation; we are the arm of the government expected to reach the poorest among us,” Minister Laroda said. “We must continue to serve with empathy and respect.”
Franon Wilson, President of Arawak Homes Ltd, a subsidiary of Sunshine Holdings Ltd, along with Sir Franklyn Wilson, highlighted the architectural and construction efforts that transformed the space into a modern campus-like facility. The renovation brings together multiple departments under one roof for the first time since Hurricane Matthew displaced social services operations nearly a decade ago.
Among the new features of the upgraded headquarters are: expanded private interview rooms for sensitive consultations; accessible entrances and elevators to better serve seniors and persons with disabilities; a modern filing system that reduces wait times; and a dedicated hurricane command center. This command center will allow social services to work hand-in-hand with emergency agencies to coordinate aid before, during, and after storms — a critical feature as The Bahamas faces increasingly active hurricane seasons.
Staff members expressed gratitude and excitement for the improved work environment, which many described as a “dream realized” after years of working in cramped and less than ideal spaces. The upgraded facility is expected to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and most importantly, restore a sense of dignity for Bahamians seeking assistance.
The special ceremony, attended by government officials, officers of The Royal Bahamas Police and Defence Forces, church leaders, and members of the community, included heartfelt reflections from longtime social services employees, many of whom have dedicated decades of service to uplifting the nation’s most vulnerable. Their stories underscored the enduring importance of social work in The Bahamas and the need to invest not only in infrastructure, but also in the human resources that power these essential services.
As the Ministry prepares for future phases of development — which officials say will further expand services, technology, and capacity — the new headquarters stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to building a Bahamas where no one is left behind.
More Photo Highlights Below:
(L-R) Dr. Debbie Bartlett, Communications Consultant (MOSSIB), Mrs. Charlamae Fernander, Director, Department of Social Services, Mrs. Donnette Williamson, Under Secretary (MOSSIB), Mrs. Phedra Rahming-Turnquest, Permanent Secretary (MOSSIB), Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting Hon. Myles Laroda (left center), Prime Minister the Hon. Philip E. Davis (right center), Minister of State for Urban Renewal Hon. Lisa Rahming, Minister of State for the Environment Hon. Zane Lightbourne, Mr. Franon Wilson, President of Arawak Homes Ltd, a subsidiary of Sunshine Holdings Ltd., Mrs. Lelia Green, former Director, Department of Social Services, Sir Franklyn Wilson, Chairman, Sunshine Holdings Ltd.
