SVb expands services for retirees with the opening of a kiosk at MFA Paradera
ORANJESTAD – The Social Security Bank (SVb) has expanded its community services with the opening of a kiosk and service portal at MFA Paradera, placing special emphasis on retirees, future retirees, and seniors who have questions or need assistance with SVb services.
The opening took place in the presence of Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Senior Care, and Addiction Care Mervin Wyatt-Ras, and SVb Director Edwin Jacobs.
The kiosk in Paradera follows the successful launch of a similar service at MFA Noord. The initiative is part of the ongoing vision to bring SVb services closer to the community by combining digital tools with personalized assistance.
During the opening, Prime Minister Eman emphasized that while digitalization offers significant opportunities and progress, it is equally important to account for citizens who are less familiar with the digital world, particularly some seniors.
Bringing services directly into neighborhoods gives citizens the opportunity to speak in person with someone who can guide and assist them, making the new kiosk in Paradera another vital step in that direction.
Minister Mervin Wyatt-Ras highlighted the importance of accessible services for older adults. He noted that retirees can visit MFA Paradera for information and support, while individuals approaching retirement age can proactively explore their rights, pension options, and the necessary steps to prepare for this new life phase.
The location within the MFA also contributes to another important objective: making public services approachable within a familiar local setting where citizens can receive assistance while maintaining social contact with one another.
SVb Director Edwin Jacobs stated that the opening in Paradera is particularly significant because it brings pension-related activities closer to the community. Interest was high, with approximately 65 people registering shortly in advance, while the SVb expected around 250 retirees and future retirees to attend the event.
Jacobs stressed that digital service delivery is a fundamental element of the SVb's modernization efforts, but personal contact remains essential to ensuring inclusive and accessible social security for all citizens.
At MFA Paradera, alongside the digital portal, an SVb employee will be present once a week to assist the public, provide information, and help citizens navigate the available services.
Following MFA Noord and Paradera, the concept is slated for expansion into other districts. According to Jacobs, Santa Cruz is next on the list, followed by Savaneta and subsequently MFA San Nicolas, gradually broadening the SVb's presence across the community.
With the opening at MFA Paradera, the government and the SVb are actively advancing their goal of bringing public services closer to the people, ensuring that digitalization goes hand in hand with personal attention for those who need it most.