COVE, Hanover — Seventy-two years after Jamaica’s first youth club debuted here in Sandy Bay, the parish has welcomed its newest addition: the Cauldwell Police Youth Club. Spiralling crime in the area in the past has partially served as a catalyst for its creation.

Officially launched Sunday, the club marks a pivotal step in fostering community engagement, youth empowerment, and stronger ties between residents and law enforcement.

“In recent times, I have seen the community of Cauldwell deteriorate to a point where murders soared, fear ran rampant, and activities once taken for granted — going to night church, football games, dances, etc — came to a standstill. Community trust eroded and segregation was the order of the day,” the founder of the club, Angela Hay, told the
Jamaica Observer following the launch which took place at the Hanover Educational Institute that has a 24-year history of youth development.

Hay, a native of Cauldwell, who is also founder and first executive director of the Hanover Educational Institute, explained why the club was so badly needed.

“The Cauldwell Police Youth Club was founded on the premise that our youth matter. I believe that all youth need a safe and supportive space where they can develop their talents, build confidence, and become positive contributors and shapers of their community,” said Hay, who is an educator.

She noted that a recognition of the challenges of economic disparity, limited opportunities, and peer pressure convinced her of the need for structured mentorship. The club aims to provide guidance and training to curb antisocial behaviour while bridging the generational gap between the youth and the elderly.

The need for such intervention was apparent in July 2023, when the Green Island Police made the revelation of children participating in lottery scamming in order to finance their schooling and maintain lavish lifestyles.

The disturbing trend was made by the then officer in charge of the Green Island Police area which covers Cauldwell, Inspector Mervin Hodges during a peace march organised by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cauldwell.

Founder of Cauldwell Police Youth Club, Angela Hay says it was founded on the premise that our youth matter. Anthony Lewis

Besides scamming, Inspector Hodges said extortion and children being recruited into gangs by adults were of concern to the police. He said these students then take their gang activities into schools where they recruit other students.

Inspector Hodges also revealed then that most of the crimes in the Green Island area were perpetrated by young people between the ages of 18 and 26.

Custos of Hanover Lennox Anderson-Jackson is among those who have welcomed the launch of the police youth club, which is now the fifth in the parish.

“This moment is, therefore, not simply about opening another club. It represents the strengthening of a partnership — a partnership between the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the people of our communities. Such collaboration is of critical importance. When the police and citizens work together, when trust and communication are nurtured, we build safer communities. We create environments where our young people feel supported, guided, and inspired to pursue positive paths,” he said during Sunday’s ceremony.

“Police youth clubs play a vital role in fostering discipline, leadership, respect, and civic responsibility among our youth. They also help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, building mutual respect and understanding. In doing so they contribute meaningfully to the reduction of domestic violence, crime, and other social challenges that affect our society,” added Anderson-Jackson, who encouraged the youth to make use of the club.

The club became a reality following a community sensitisation meeting in December 2024 and regular meetings starting the following month. The meetings are held at the Cauldwell New Testament Church of God on Sundays.

Since then, the club has made a tangible impact, as members have actively participated in various community projects, including Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, school support activities such as painting and gardening at Pell River Primary School, and organising community events such as Christmas dinners.

Now with an active membership of 30, the club is open to individuals within the community between the ages of seven and 30 who are interested in personal development and making a positive difference.

Custos of Hanover, Lennox Anderson-Jackson is encouraging youngsters to make use of the Cauldwell Police Youth Club. Anthony Lewis