The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

MEMBERS of the Grants Town community expressed high hopes for the success of the re-introduced Urban Renewal Project yesterday.

Police officers, pastors and representatives from affiliated organisations toured the area to assess community needs and establish relationships with residents.

"It's all about crime prevention," said Inspector Rolle, head of the Urban Renewal project for Bain and Grants Town. "We are looking at crime from the perspective of the environment and we have concluded that in addition to fixing dilapidated buildings and removing derelict vehicles, we have to do our best to provide persons within the community with jobs."

Asked about the initiative, one resident, Tamika Roberts, expressed her support.

"It's a good thing," she said. "The police presence is a deterrent to crime in inner communities. When the police is around, criminals refuse to commit crime."

Pointing to problems around her house, Vernice Poitier asked for assistance.

"I need help. When it rains it pours and my kids didn't even go to school today because they ain' have no lunch or had any breakfast. They lost their daddy so it's me one," she said.

According to Rev Pat Rolle of Cornerstone Church of God, churches are expected to play an integral role in the project.

She said: "We want to get the young people involved. On July 19, a meeting will take place involving the pastors and youth leaders which will be sponsored by the Urban Renewal project."