GoodHeart | Scotiabank fêtes women of Parade and Rose Gardens

This newspaper has repeatedly applauded efforts at community organisation and development at lower socio-economic levels. We have felt particularly uplifted by the work of the private sector-driven Project Star, which anecdotal evidence suggests is having significant impact in targeted urban and rural areas. We hear that positives include building trust between the authorities — not least the police — and ordinary folk. This hold much potential in the mission to reduce crime and engender a greater sense of good order and well-being.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting a significant reduction in crime in Kingston Central Division, with police confirming zero violent incidents since the start of the year in communities such as Rose Gardens. According to a release from Project STAR, the update was shared at its town hall meeting at Pentab High School, where Divisional Commander Superintendent Mishka Forbes described the achievement as a major turnaround for an area once plagued by persistent violence.

Five residents of Salt Spring have been recognised by Project STAR as community champions, honoured for their consistent volunteerism, leadership and commitment to community development. The awards were presented during a recent town hall meeting hosted by Project STAR at the Salt Spring New Testament Church. The recipients, Travis Cooke, Oraine Lawson, Barbara Beadle, Ann Marie Douglas and Sherri-Kay Morris, were recognised for their contributions across youth mentorship, community mobilisation, communications and entrepreneurship.