On May 28, a meaningful community initiative led by CARICOM Youth Ambassador Chrysean Jarvis brought critical hygiene resources to new recruits of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, tying directly to global observances of Menstrual Hygiene Day. Jarvis and his volunteer team delivered a large shipment of essential supplies to Course #50 of the police training academy, where dozens of new recruits are currently completing their preparation for service.
The donation package covered a wide range of necessary items, from general personal care products including toiletries and hand sanitizers to surface disinfectants, with a targeted focus on providing high-quality feminine hygiene products to support the health and dignity of female trainees in the cohort. Beyond the material contribution, the core mission of the project was to elevate public conversation around menstrual hygiene management, create safe spaces for open dialogue, and chip away at the persistent social stigma that still surrounds discussions of menstruation in many communities.
During their visit to the police training facility, Jarvis and his team did not limit their engagement to the hygiene donation. They also held extended interactive discussions with the recruits about pressing topics that impact young people across Antigua and Barbuda, from expanding youth participation in public life to building cross-sector partnerships that address the most pressing challenges facing younger generations.
The initiative drew broad support from local stakeholders, ranging from grassroots youth leaders to established community and private sector partners. Key backers included the National Youth Ambassador Corps, which operates under the country’s Department of Youth Affairs, and local private enterprise Ibrahim Construction Ltd.
Leadership of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda issued a formal statement following the donation, expressing gratitude to Jarvis, his team, and all supporting organizations for their generous contribution and ongoing commitment to advancing youth empowerment and public health awareness across the nation.