The crime-plagued Portmore community of Gregory Park is now benefiting from a series of social services interventions organized by the social development commission. 

The aim is to provide residents with opportunities such as: jobs, certification, drug abuse counseling and assistance, to help foster the reduction of crime in the area. After being the subject of several news reports since the beginning of the year due to crime and violence, the Gregory Park community is now receiving the long-awaited social intervention, in an effort to reduce crime and other ills. 

The Social Development Commission (SDC) organized a social services fair on Wednesday to assist residents in securing jobs, certificates, and personal documentation. She says to directly tackle the dual concerns of crime and unemployment, the SDC has partnered with other organizations to lend the necessary network of support to Gregory Park residents. Also present at the fair was substance abuse officer for the National Council of Drug Abuse in the parish, David Gordon, who was educating residents on the dangers of drug addiction.

Meanwhile, residents told CVM Live the intervention was much needed. Our news team understands that this is among several upcoming events to provide an impetus of reform to the community.

Reporter: Velonique Bowen