
Local KFC franchise operator, Restaurants of Jamaica (ROJ), has strengthened its partnership with the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) with a $1-million donation to support the social transformation programme, Project STAR.
The contribution aims to bolster the initiatives of the five-year project that is dedicated to achieving social and economic transformation within 10 underserved communities.
Recognising Project STAR’s commendable approach to economic growth through comprehensive community engagement, assessment, and development, Andrei Roper, ROJ’s brand manager, conveyed the entity’s admiration for the programme.
Roper stated: “At ROJ, we value initiatives that contribute to social upliftment and development across all sectors of the economy. We are thrilled to extend our support to Project STAR, as it aligns perfectly with our unwavering commitment to building our great nation and assisting communities and individuals in need.”

Saffrey Brown, project director of PSOJ’s Project STAR programme.
Project STAR, led by project director Saffrey Brown, is a five-year initiative aimed at addressing the social and economic challenges faced by under-resourced and underserved communities grappling with rising crime and violence. The project takes a comprehensive approach that includes consultation with communities to determine their specific needs, which are then supported by extensive data and analysis.
Brown expressed gratitude for the partnership, emphasising the importance of engaging all segments of society in achieving their goals. She stated: “We welcome the partnership with ROJ because, to achieve our desired goals, we must engage all of society, including every business leader, brand, and organisation that values community outreach and increased economic investment. ROJ has consistently invested in various community initiatives over the years, and we appreciate their involvement in ours.”
Beyond cash contributions, Brown highlighted that donors like ROJ often go above and beyond to make a lasting impact. In addition to monetary support, it may host community engagement activities, provide training programmes, or offer job placements, further enhancing the programme’s effectiveness.
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