More Youth Groups in St. James Encouraged to Undertake Climate-Resilient Projects

More young people in St. James are being encouraged to apply for grant funding, which is available under the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund Project, to execute climate-resilient initiatives in their communities.

The invitation was extended by Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, during a special ceremony on Tuesday (January 21) to recognise young climate activists in the parish who participated in the Project’s initial phase.

The event was held at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre.

Under the initiative, youth groups, with the help of their Community Development Committees (CDC), develop projects to benefit their areas.

The Project provides grants of between $150,000 and $750,000 to groups comprising members aged 15 to 24.

A selection committee is tasked with evaluating the project plans submitted to ensure the funds are used effectively.

Councillor Vernon encouraged the participants in Tuesday’s event to be critical of things impacting the environment and their future.

“Youth-led action is a catalyst for a sustainable tomorrow, and we need to hear from you. I don’t think, where climate change is concerned, our youth are doing enough. You need to get involved,” he maintained.

Councillor Vernon noted that the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund Project is designed to empower youth to “take the lead” and act when it comes to climate-change issues.

He pointed out that some 12 groups executed projects under phase one and, in so doing, are playing their part in fostering climate resilience.

The Mayor also noted that by providing grants and resources, the Fund supports efforts to develop and execute projects that address local climate challenges.

“Whether it’s through community education as we have seen in Norwood and Adelphi, conservation initiatives as we have seen in Maldon, Rose Heights and Salt Spring, or sustainable development projects as we have seen in Rosemount Gardens, Cambridge and Spot Valley, your contributions are making a tangible difference. Together, we can turn the tide on climate change,” he stated.

Mayor Vernon also emphasised the importance of “building strong relationships and partnerships with local organisations, government agencies and fellow youth groups”, pointing out that, “this will amplify your impact and help you achieve your goals”.

“Additionally, effective communication is crucial. Sharing your progress, challenges and successes will bring together the community. It will inspire them to join the movement and support your efforts,” he added.

The Youth Climate Action Fund Project is being financed by Bloomberg Philanthropies in collaboration with United Cities Local Governments (UCLG) and the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation (BCPI) at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.

The St. James Municipal Corporation, which is spearheading the project in the parish, received a $7.5-million grant for phase one.

Grants totalling approximately $15 million will be available in phase two.

During the ceremony, the Salt Spring, Spot Valley and Rose Mount Bloomberg youth groups were acknowledged for having the top projects in phase one of the initiative.