Three presentations made at the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday morning – all aimed at helping to fund the Over-The-Hill Initiative.

Collectively the donations are valued at $500,000, the first $100,000 – a gift from Mark Holowesko to Geoffrey Andrews from the Small Business Development Centre, which according to Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis, will be used as grants to businesses in the inner city.

“It will be utilized as grants in tranches of $2,500-$3,500, especially for Barber Shops so they can expand and they can resupply their stalls.

“They can be utilize for beauty salons and beauty stores to assist them, small businesses within the community whether they are Landscapers, Tire Repairman or tailor shops etcetera,” he said. 

Mr. Holowesko also donated another $100,000 to the Over-The- Hill Initiative Foundation.

He said, “the foundation will be responsible for the comprehensive programs of Over-The Hill. We are trying to present and come forth with opportunities for the inhabitants of the inner cities so that they themselves will be able to improve the quality of their lives, become entrepreneurs in the Bahamian society and create jobs not only for themselves but for others within the community.”   

Meantime, Albany handed over the remaining $300,000 to the Prime Minister to further aid in the development of the Over- The- Hill program.

“As you know Albany has given $300,000 several months ago which commenced the reconstruction of the first phase of the Over-The-Hill Program which would have been the Southern Recreation Grounds. 

“Today  we are receiving an additional $300,000 and therefore I want on behalf of myself, the government and the people of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas thank both Albany and Mr. Holowesko, who understands what living in that type of underprivileged environment and who understands what it’s all about has been donating generously for a long time, however not in an open manner as has been done here today” Dr. Minnis said.   

Since taking office, the Prime Minister has tasked a team of professionals with creating a comprehensive strategy to transform and restore Over- The Hill – an area that includes all areas south of Shirley Street as far south as  Robinson Road.

The project is being rolled out in phases – the first phase is bound by Nassau Street at the west; Poinciana Drive and Wulff  Road at the south; Collins Avenue to the east and Shirley Street, West Hill Street and Delancy Street at the north.