by The Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP

Minister of National Security

Government Grants Over $540,000 to Empower Violence Reduction and Community Resilience

The Government of Bermuda, through the Ministry of National Security, continues its unwavering commitment to reducing violence and building a safer, more resilient Bermuda. As part of the National Violence Reduction Strategy, more than $540,000 in grant funding has been awarded to a range of community-based organisations that are making meaningful contributions in the areas of prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation.

These investments reflect the Government’s multifaceted approach to addressing the root causes of violence—especially gang and youth violence—through programs that strengthen communities, expand access to mental health services, and create positive pathways for Bermuda’s young people.

A breakdown of the recent funding includes:

• 💰 $288,000 to sports clubs across the island, supporting structured programs that engage young people in skill-building, mentorship, and leadership development.

• 💰 $135,000 to community support organisations offering transitional housing, trauma-informed care, case management, and counselling services.

• 💰 $84,000 to educational initiatives focused on tutoring, career planning, and vocational skills development.

• 💰 $35,000 to youth mentorship programs that promote identity, self-confidence, and long-term decision-making through trusted relationships with adult mentors.

These grants are not just financial transactions—they are strategic investments in peacebuilding. They reinforce our belief that those closest to the problems are also closest to the solutions.

Moving forward, the Ministry will continue to monitor the impact of these programs, ensuring responsible use of public funds and sustained progress in violence reduction. New partnerships and opportunities—especially in mental health, education access, and trauma-informed care—will also be explored as we work to build a Bermuda where all young people have a clear and supported pathway to success.

Honouring Service: The Royal Bermuda Regiment and Coast Guard Continue Their Mission

In addition to strengthening communities through grants, the Ministry of National Security is also proud to recognise the outstanding work of the Royal Bermuda Regiment and Coast Guard Unit in leadership development, regional collaboration, and maritime safety.

Royal Bermuda Regiment Highlights:

• In June, 18 Regiment members participated in a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Cadre Camp in North Carolina alongside regional partners from the Turks and Caicos and Cayman Islands.

• Between June 27 and July 4, the Regiment hosted two youth camps involving 40 young Bermudians, including a Junior Leader program and a Junior Band Camp that provided valuable training and life experiences.

• On July 6, the Regiment welcomed 36 new recruits, including 12 from Bermuda and 24 from the Turks and Caicos Regiment, further strengthening regional ties and operational readiness.

Coast Guard Achievements:

• In June alone, the Coast Guard:

  • Conducted 136 patrols

  • Observed 284 vessels

  • Issued 23 marine regulation tickets

  • Made 4 arrests

  • Completed 10 search and rescue operations

• Partnered with police, customs, and environmental agencies in joint operations.

• Commissioned three forward-looking infrared cameras (valued at $172,000) funded by the UK to improve night-time search and rescue capabilities.

• Plans are in motion to double the number of full-time Coast Guard members and complete a new Coast Guard station in St. David’s by December 2025.

These achievements underscore the Government’s commitment to supporting those who protect our shores and develop Bermuda’s next generation of leaders. Young Bermudians are encouraged to consider service in the Regiment, where they’ll gain life-changing leadership training, physical fitness, and unique travel and adventure opportunities.

The Ministry of National Security remains committed to a safer Bermuda—through community support, youth empowerment, and national service.