Basseterre, Saint Kitts (SKNIS): The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis today, May 20, 2026, officially recommissioned the New Horizon Rehabilitation Centre (NHRC) at its original location in Harris’ Village, following extensive rehabilitation and infrastructure upgrades.
Established on March 13, 2013, the Centre provides educational and rehabilitative support for disadvantaged youth aged 12 to 18. Since its establishment, NHRC has served nearly 100 young persons, guiding and supporting adolescents in need of care and redirection.
Speaking at the recommissioning ceremony, Deputy Director of the New Horizons Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre, Shaneze Sam, highlighted the resilience of staff and residents during the Centre’s temporary relocation over the past three years.
“In the last three years, the center has operated from temporary locations to ensure continuity of service while extensive rehabilitative work was conducted at this building. While this period required adjustment and flexibility from both staff and residents, it also demonstrated the resilience and commitment of those who remained focused on the mission of NHRC,” Deputy Director Sam said. “Today, as we return to this renewed space, we do so with a deeper appreciation for the journey, the sacrifices made, and the collective effort that brought us back to this moment,” she added.
Minister with responsibility for Social Development, the Honourable Isalean Phillip, described the return to Harris’ Village as a major achievement for the administration.
“We are really truly celebrating the return of the New Horizons Rehabilitation Centre to its original location here in the village of Harris’. That in and of itself is an accomplishment and it’s really a proud moment for me,” Minister Phillip said.
The minister stated that it was a long and challenging two years since the government made the commitment to ensure and prioritise the renovation of this facility so that the juveniles can return to a safe space.
“We remain committed to improving and making changes because while we’re back in the building there’s still work for us to be done, there’s still improvements to be made in terms of the system, the protocol, the management, and so we are committed to continue to work on those things,” Minister Phillip said.
The rehabilitation project included the construction of a new water pump house and water tank platform, upgraded sewage and electrical systems, installation of high-impact security windows, custom burglar bars and handrails, roof repairs, restroom upgrades, and other safety improvements.
The upgraded water system includes tanks with a combined storage capacity of 5,000 gallons and a manual backup component in the event of power outages or mechanical failure.
The recommissioning of the New Horizon Rehabilitation Centre reflects the government’s continued commitment to youth rehabilitation, social development, and strengthening institutions that support vulnerable young people in Saint Kitts and Nevis.