Savanna-la-Mar is a historical and thriving town situated on the south coast of Jamaica. The town, which means 'the plain by the sea', was established as the parish capital of Westmoreland in 1730 and has a rich cultural history. Despite facing several natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods over the years, Savanna-la-Mar has continued to evolve into a bustling commercial hub for the region. 

One of the town's most notable features is its significance in education and religion. Mannings High School, one of the oldest schools in Jamaica, was established in Savanna-la-Mar in 1738. The town is also home to the Savanna-la-Mar Baptist Church, founded in June 1829, making it one of the oldest churches in the country.

Savanna-la-Mar boasts a population of around 13,930 individuals occupying 3,980 households with an average household size of 3.5 persons. The town serves as the capital and centre of commercial activity for the parish of Westmoreland. The wider development area comprises 25 communities and just under 50,000 people.

Despite its rich history and cultural significance, Savanna-la-Mar and the surrounding region still face several challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and limited access to education and healthcare. But with your support for Project STAR, we can work towards creating a brighter future for the people of Savanna-la-Mar and the wider Westmoreland community. Join us today and be a part of making a positive change in Jamaica.

Project STAR will primarily be working alongside 4 primary communities within Savanna-la-mar over the 4 years of implementation. These communities are:

• Seaton Crescent
• Harmony Town
• Pepparrac Lawn
• Coke Street (12th Street)

Information source: Summary Report of the Findings from Primary and Secondary Research - Conducted for the Social Transformation and Renewal Project (Project STAR) - October 2022- Violence Prevention Alliance

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