CLARENDON, Jamaica – Havana Heights in May Pen, Clarendon, came alive with vibrant activities recently as community members gathered for the May Pen West Community Integration Festival, organised by community members with the support of Project STAR.

According to a release from Project STAR, the festival featured a football competition, a domino competition, and a medical fair and offered social services from key government agencies, which created an engaging and inclusive space for residents.

Sharise Staines-Appleby, community services lead with Project STAR, emphasised the initiative’s goal of fostering community spirit while providing access to critical social services.

“We have used sports as a tool to engage the communities, improve community relationships, and connect residents with essential services,” she stated.

Staines-Appleby said that patrons were able to apply for birth certificates from the Registrar General’s Department (RGD) with the financial support from Project STAR and another 130 individuals accessed medical services through the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

Jermaine Jackson, a resident of the Treadlight district and a participant in the festival, highlighted the event’s significance in strengthening bonds among various communities, including Treadlight, Havana Heights Phases 1, 2, and 3, Pennant Wood, and Racetrack.

“The festival brings communities together, promotes peace, and allows us to enjoy a day of unity and fun,” he said. “We had a similar event last year in the Treadlight district, and it was a success. It’s wonderful to see this happening in Havana Heights now.”

Jackson also shared how Project STAR has positively impacted his personal and professional growth through its job readiness training and mindset transformation sessions.

“The programme has helped me change my perspective on life, preparing me for job opportunities and social interactions,” he noted.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in friendly sports competitions, enjoyed the camaraderie, and accessed critical services offered by several government and social agencies. The event featured collaborations with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the RGD, the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Ministry of Justice, and the Social Development Commission.

“Collaboration is a key component of our work at Project STAR,” Staines-Appleby stressed. “Many of our communities are vulnerable and underserved. By working together with various agencies, we connect residents with essential resources that can improve their quality of life.”

Staines-Appleby said the success of the May Pen West Community Integration Festival serves as a testament to the power of unity, engagement, and service.