Christmas comes early as police gives kids $8,500 JCF Bucks to spend

Children attending the JCF CARE Christmas Villages in Rat Trap district, Westmoreland, Litchfield in Trelawny, and Cold Spring district, Hanover, were treated to a unique Christmas experience with the introduction of JCF Bucks, a special form of currency created just for them.

The initiative was funded by members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force Officer Corps, who opted to postpone their annual cocktail event and instead support children in communities badly affected by Hurricane Melissa.

The brightly coloured JCF Bucks were issued in denominations ranging from $100 to $5,000 and given to children in bundles totalling $8,500. The children were then allowed to spend the money on food, clothes, toys, services and other treats inside the Christmas villages.

For many children, it was their first opportunity to choose how to spend money on their own, giving them a sense of independence and pride. The programme offered an alternative to traditional care packages while still meeting real needs.

Each JCF Buck carried the serial number 11/28/67, marking the date the Jamaica Constabulary Force was established. The notes also featured the slogan, "Strengthening our people, Strengthening our Bonds, Strengthening Jamaica."

Seventy-five-year-old Harold Spence, who attended with his grandchildren, said he had never seen anything like it in his community and described the initiative as a blessing.

Principal of Kew Park Primary School, Ramon Bremmer, praised the programme, saying it brought joy and dignity to families and had a positive impact on children in the area.

The JCF CARE initiative continues to show the force's commitment to supporting communities and uplifting children, especially during the Christmas season.

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