In a critical step toward addressing violence in Jamaica, Winrock International and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have formalized their partnership under the USAID Supporting Victims of Violence (SVOV) Activity. 

The official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on January 16 at the Office of the Commissioner of Police, marks a pivotal moment in efforts to tackle the pervasive impacts of violence and foster safer, more inclusive communities.

The SVOV Activity, a four-year initiative (2023–2027) funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is implemented by Winrock International in partnership with local organizations, including Eve for Life and RISE Life Management Services. The partnership focuses on strengthening multi-stakeholder coordination and delivering holistic, trauma-informed services to survivors, witnesses, and perpetrators of violence aged 10 to 29.

It is widely recognized that many homicides in Jamaica are linked to gang violence, with young men under 30 disproportionately affected as both victims and perpetrators, combined with the confusion surrounding available trauma-informed support services.

Emphasizing the need to address critical gaps in trauma-informed care, community policing, and access to services for marginalized groups, SVOV Chief of Party Dr. Charlene Coore Desai noted, “The data tells a powerful story that violence remains Jamaica’s number one social and economic concern, affecting individuals, families, and entire communities. This partnership with JCF represents a pivotal step in transforming these challenges into opportunities for healing, safety, and resilience. By combining our expertise, we aim to build a system that provides coordinated, trauma-informed support to survivors, witnesses, and even perpetrators of violence.”

Key Areas of Collaboration under the MOU

Under the MOU, Winrock International and the JCF will work together to address systemic violence through evidence-based and community-led solutions. Specific initiatives include:

• Conducting trauma-informed care training for JCF personnel, particularly in the Community
• Safety and Security Branch (CSSB) and the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA).
• Developing and distributing outreach materials to promote violence prevention and available services.
• Strengthening Police Youth Clubs in hotspot communities to empower young leaders as advocates for conflict resolution.
• Expanding CSSB and CISOCA’s capacity to better support persons with disabilities.

Commissioner of Police, Dr Kevin Blake, emphasized that the JCF’s partnership with USAID and Winrock International demonstrates the power of shared responsibility. “Together, we will strengthen our ability to serve and protect communities by addressing the root causes of violence and fostering trust and collaboration with the public.”