WILLEMSTAD – Twelve families on Curaçao received the keys to their new homes during a ceremony held on Friday, May 8, marking what officials described as an important step toward improving housing security and quality of life on the island.
During the ceremony, Social Development, Labor and Welfare Minister Charetti America-Francisca addressed the families and celebrated the milestone, while also acknowledging the ongoing housing challenges facing Curaçao.
The minister stated that despite existing obstacles, the achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished when institutions work together toward a common goal.
According to America-Francisca, housing projects often involve complex technical, administrative, and organizational phases that require responsible management to ensure sustainable results.
She said the moment represented more than simply handing over houses.
“These keys represent not only a house, but a home,” the minister said during her speech. “A place where children can grow up safely, where parents can look toward the future with more confidence, and where families can build new opportunities.”
The minister thanked the Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning, Fundashon Kas Popular (FKP), and other institutions and partners involved in the project for their collaboration and commitment.
At the same time, America-Francisca emphasized that Curaçao continues to face major housing shortages, especially for low- and middle-income families and young people searching for affordable homes.
She pointed to the government’s “Mi Kas Awor” housing initiative as an important part of the solution.
According to the minister, the program is not only about constructing houses but about creating opportunities and giving families a stable foundation from which they can grow independently.
She also stressed the need for smarter and more efficient construction methods because of Curaçao’s limited land availability.
“We must continue investing in structural and sustainable housing solutions for the future,” she said.
Addressing the twelve families directly, the minister encouraged them to turn their new houses into homes built on strong values, love, respect, understanding, and faith.
“I hope these homes become places of peace, progress, hope, and blessings for you and your families,” she said.
The ceremony highlighted the government’s continuing efforts to address housing affordability and social welfare challenges on the island amid rising living costs and growing demand for affordable housing.