Former Police Chief Devon Clunis Supports Schools in Jamaica

In early October 2023, former Winnipeg police chief Devon Clunis returned to his native Jamaica to volunteer with the humanitarian organization Great Shape! Inc. Clunis and a group of approximately 80 volunteers focused on supporting three schools by providing educational resources and infrastructure improvements. Unfortunately, shortly after his departure, Hurricane Melissa struck the island, causing significant damage to the very schools he had worked to assist.

Clunis, who served as police chief from 2012 until his retirement in 2016, has been in communication with local contacts regarding the impact of the hurricane. “We don’t quite have the full scope, but we are in regular contact with the people in those specific areas,” Clunis said. He noted that while some schools are beginning to reopen, many are now operating in temporary tent facilities due to extensive damage.

The former chief emphasized the importance of allowing cleanup crews and support workers to operate without the added strain of increased tourism. “We don’t need people flooding the island,” he stated. “Let’s work with the people that are there and support them until we can get back on the ground in Jamaica.” Clunis highlighted that many hotels were damaged and were currently housing staff and families affected by the storm.

During his two-week trip, Clunis collaborated with volunteers to set up 200 computers for the schools and engaged directly with students to enhance their literacy. He brought copies of his 2017 children’s book, which he co-authored with his wife, Pearlene. “Many of the students there have just the basic literacy, understanding the alphabet, and you could see a huge transformation in those two weeks in some of those kids,” he said. “Education unlocks the potential, the future for any child.”

Clunis remarked on the stark differences in the educational landscape between Jamaica and Canada. He described some classes being held in open-air environments with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, while others suffer from overcrowding and limited resources. “It’s not the easiest learning environment,” he noted. “It’s a totally different socio-economic culture that really impacts the learning abilities, especially if a student is already struggling to start.”

Clunis continues to engage in police consulting work across North America, with a particular focus on fostering unity. He expressed concerns about the growing division in both the United States and Canada, observing that while the former displays overt discord, the latter reflects a more subtle disconnection. “We’re diverse; we want to be equitable, but are we a unified country?” Clunis questioned. “Everything we’re doing right now I don’t feel that we’re unified. So that’s a big push for me. At the end of the day, we’re one people.”

His commitment to education and community support highlights a proactive approach to addressing significant challenges faced by students and families in Jamaica. As recovery efforts continue in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Clunis’s insights and experiences serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for humanitarian support in affected areas.