THANKS to the support of public-spirited citizens, a young man, who on Thursday celebrated his 18th birthday, was released from the Juvenile Holding Centre in Sophia after finally making his bail at the police station.

Without this act of kindness, the now 18-year-old youth would have been transferred to the prison system, but will instead be released into his family’s care, while his matter is still before the court, said Juvenile Justice Director at the Home Affairs Ministry, Joan Ann Edghill-Stuart.

The group of citizens: Juan Edghill Jr., Xavier Mann, Joshua & Cristine Cummings, Jonathon Pooran, and Marika Archer, were supported by the Juvenile Justice Department and the Centre’s Administrator, Nafeeza Rodrigues and staff in leading interactive sessions with the juveniles, all with the aim of motivating them to transform their lives, and reminding them that there are still persons in society who care about their well-being.

The team of public-spirited citizens have reportedly never met the youth before, but saw this as an opportunity to give him a “second chance”, Director Edghill-Stuart said.

She expressed gratitude for the support provided in reconnecting the youth with his family.

“The released juvenile is expected to be employed in the near future, and has vowed to make better decisions,” she said.

Persons interested in supporting juveniles in the care of the State are asked to contact the Department directly on: 226-5306 or the Juvenile Holding Centre on: 219-4201.