REACHING THE STREETS: EMPOWERING YOUTH TO BREAK FREE FROM CRIMINALITY

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, Culture and Library Services successfully executed the phase two of its groundbreaking “Reaching the Streets” (RTS) initiative on the 6-8^th on Providenciales and 9^th -11^th on Grand Turk.

The “Reaching the Streets” programme, developed by Dr. David Burrows and partners from the Bahamas, and steered by the collaborative efforts of multiple government agencies is a comprehensive intervention strategy designed specifically to address and mitigate the challenges posed by youth involvement in delinquent activities, including gun and gang-related crimes. This programme is not just an intervention, but a substantial investment in the future of our young people, offering them alternatives and opportunities that steer them away from violence. It is intended to include preventative, intervention, and rehabilitation strategies.

This transformative multi sector initiative geared to toward mitigation of violence and capacity building of key stakeholders was rolled out in a phased approach commencing with:

Phase 1 – Of the programme brought together key stakeholders from across the country to participate in nation-wide consultations.

Phase 2 – Executed just last week, brought these stakeholders once again to conduct a national training and development session under the direction of Dr. Burrows and his team, to strengthen the capacity of all stakeholders involved with youth development and advocacy.

Phase 3 – Encompasses implementation and monitoring impact! Our facilitators will deliver to the core working group a strategic implementation plan that will guide next steps. It is envisioned that key stakeholders across the Turks & Caicos Islands will be strategically grouped to create “Zones of Impact”. This approach will more efficiently streamline programmes, and allow better coordinated access to funding, technical support as well as programme monitoring at a national level through the Department of Youth Affairs.

Moving forward, our responsibility will be to tailor the strategies to reflect the needs of TCI Youth. Our aim is to also bring greater awareness to and strengthen the existing programmes that are provided through the various entities including government, churches and the wider society.   It is imperative that we continue to prioritize the well-being of at-risk youth and invest in initiatives which seek to break the cycle of violence ultimately fostering thriving communities and a more equitable society for all.

Hon. Rachel Taylor Minister for Education, Youth, Sports, Culture and Library Services commented, “we understand that the path away from criminality is not an easy one, but with the right support and resources, it is absolutely achievable. Through strategies such as the RTS initiative, we are committed to providing a holistic, personalized approach that addresses the root causes of criminal behavior and equips participants with the tools they need to build meaningful and fulfilling lives.”

The success of the “Reaching the Streets” programme hinges on multi-stakeholder buy-in and active participation. It calls for mentors, financial support, and advocacy. It requires us to come together, not occasionally, but consistently, to provide sustainable solutions and support systems to our youth. This is our collective responsibility and our most potent response mechanism against the cycle of violence that threatens to consume our community.

On behalf of the Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Marshall Taylor and the core working group which includes The Ministries of Health, Home Affairs, Public Safety & Utilities, Tourism, as well as the National Security Council, TCI Christian Council, Turks and Caicos Islands Hotel & Tourism Association and concerned citizens, a hearty thank you is extended to all that participated in this ground breaking initiative. The Reaching the Streets programme would not be possible without your valuable support.

For more information about the Reaching the Streets program or to get involved, please email youthdepartment@gov.tc .