A third shelter for victims of domestic violence is currently being constructed and is expected to reach completion by the end of the 2024–2025 financial year.

This was disclosed by Gender Minister Olivia Grange during her contribution to the 2024–2025 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (June 25).

“To date, we have established and are operating two shelters for victims of domestic violence. They are safe, well-secured, and equipped to cater to women and their children. The environment is therapeutic. We have counsellors. We offer legal services. We have trainers who have developed various programmes to help women earn and become financially independent,” Grange stated.

The shelters are established by the government with the support of the European Union, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UN Women, and others.

“Any of us could become victims of domestic violence, but none of us should stay in that situation. Help is now available. So, my sisters, take that step. Call or text us at 876-553-0372 or 876-236-1713. We will help,” the gender affairs minister urged.

Domestic Violence Intervention Centres have also been established at police stations islandwide to provide counselling and other forms of support to people who experience domestic violence.

Meanwhile, Grange says the government is expanding the reach of the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation by rehabilitating and establishing new facilities at Santa Cruz and Mandeville.

“We are working with the Factories Corporation of Jamaica on improving our facilities in St Thomas as part of the government’s deliberate development plan for the parish. We have also put in the infrastructure to improve the delivery of virtual CSEC classes in rural areas,” she explained.

“The Women’s Centre, now in its 45th year, has been a lifeline to thousands of adolescent mothers for whom it has provided a second chance while helping to reduce the adolescent birth rate.”