Twenty-six months after its launch, Project STAR is celebrating notable progress in the five target communities where its social intervention programmes are transforming lives and revitalising neighbourhoods.

Project STAR director, Saffrey Brown, highlighted the exceptional level of community engagement as one of the initiative’s most significant achievements. She disclosed that across all five communities, over 3,500 residents have actively participated in shaping their Community Transformation Action Plans, as she emphasised the crucial role local input has played in driving the project’s success.

“This level of engagement far exceeded initial targets, such as in Parade Gardens in east downtown Kingston where 13% of the population took part, surpassing the original 5% goal. Rose Gardens saw an even greater turnout with 16% participation. These impressive numbers underscore the success of Project STAR’s framework in igniting a sense of ownership among residents, making it a true community-led and community-owned initiative,” she said.

Brown made the disclosure at a donor’s breakfast where an update on the project was given at S Hotel in Kingston, recently. She explained that Project STAR’s structured approach, particularly through the formation of Community Transformation Boards, has allowed localised decision-making based on both qualitative and quantitative data. 

“This method ensures that interventions are tailored to the specific needs of each community, resulting in lasting changes. One of the key accomplishments has been the strengthening of relationships between communities and local law enforcement,” she said.

She noted that residents and police officers have embraced a shared vision for community safety, leading to increased cooperation and trust – an often-elusive goal in violence-affected areas.

Another area of success has been in promoting social cohesion through various community programmes. Over 6,000 residents, including a significant number of children, have benefited from Project STAR’s social cohesion programmes. 

“These programmes, which include sporting activities, cultural events, and peace-building initiatives, have been pivotal in fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration. The engagement of youth, particularly through sports, has been significant, with 62% of participants in these activities under the age of 29, a key high-risk group,” she said.

Brown informed that Project STAR’s efforts in family and child-based support have also been transformative. Recognising the critical need to break the cycle of violence, the project has implemented various initiatives aimed at creating safe and nurturing home environments. 

“Over 1,100 residents have benefited from programmes such as parenting groups and school-based support activities. These interventions have helped to improve academic outcomes and school enrollment rates, with projects like the homework programme in Parade Gardens leading the way,” she said.

The initiative has also made strides in economic empowerment, and has launched a number of business programmes which have benefitted 575 resident entrepreneurs and local businesses.

“Project STAR’s Nano Entrepreneurship Programme has opened new opportunities for high-risk youth, providing them with the tools, seed funding, and support needed to create sustainable businesses,” said Brown.

She stated that Project STAR’s holistic approach, which integrates social, economic, and family support, has brought renewed hope to under-resourced and vulnerable communities. “With the unwavering commitment of residents, community champions, and key partners, the initiative is proving that community-led change is not just possible but already happening,” she added.