A Second Shelter For Jamaica- Honourable Olivia Grange Unveils New Shelter For Victims of Domestic Abuse
“I’m so happy we have a second shelter that is ready,” said the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, as she opened the second government-run shelter for victims of domestic abuse.
The Minister cut the ribbon, symbolising the opening of the facility, in the presence of the High Commissioner of Canada, as well as representatives of the European Union Delegation to Jamaica, the UNFPA, and UN Women who have been assisting the Ministry to establish safe spaces for women.
The Minister said this second shelter was in a remote location and would focus on housing “very high-risk victims”. However, any woman who needs the shelter should call the National Helpline on 876-553-0372.
The opening and tour of the new facility took place on Human Rights Day — at the end of the 16 Days of Activism towards eliminating violence against women.
The European Union has provided €8M, under the Spotlight Initiative, “to support Jamaica in its fight against violence against women and the EU is very pleased to be associated with this second shelter because it does carry forward the EU’s passion for supporting women and girls in their fight against violence,” said Ms. Lawrence.
The Spotlight Initiative is a partnership between the European Union and the United Nations. The Director for the United Nations Population Fund Caribbean Office, Alyson Drayton, said her organisation had been assisting the Ministry to produce a manual of special operating procedures for the shelters, providing equipment as well as training counsellors and hiring staff who will work with women who come to the shelters.
Aside from counselling, women who attend the government shelters will also receive training to increase their economic options. One of the new training programmes, which will begin in the New Year, will be sponsored by the High Commission of Canada.
