Communities interested in entering the Better Environments for Social Transformation (BEST) community competition are being reminded that the deadline for submitting applications is Friday, February 16.

Consultant coordinator for Special Programmes and Projects in the Cabinet Office, Jacqueline DaCosta, says the application process is now open.

Community representatives may collect application forms at the regional offices of the Social Development Commission (SDC) and at parish council offices islandwide.

She said the primary objective of the competition is to encourage individuals, businesses and professionals to become more involved in the sustainable development of their communities while protecting the environment.

"The programme is geared towards the 785 communities identified by the SDC, so we really want to get as many people involved in transforming their communities, both the citizens as well as persons from those communities, who have various capacities or abilities to help the others in various technical and professional ways," Ms. DaCosta said.

Arthur Newland, special programmes officer at the SDC, explained that in applying, community members must contact their Community Development Committee (CDC), which is mandated to represent the community.

The CDC then fills out the application form and submits it to the nearest SDC, Parish Council or Parish Development Committee office.

Subsequent to that, the community must submit a work plan, outlining the plans for the community. The plan should also include a profile of the community.

The judging will proceed based on these submissions.

Communities would be judged at both the parish and the national levels with the national winner receiving $2 million and trophies.

In addition, there will be special category prizes at the parish and national levels, for the most beautiful community, the best-kept educational institution, most-improved agricultural practices, best community spirit and self-reliance, and best cultural heritage programme.

Prizes must be used for further community development programmes.

Meanwhile, communities are being reminded that all projects and programmes must give priority to seven main areas. They are: the built environment, the natural environment, socio-economic activities, such as job creation opportunities; hazard mitigation and disaster preparedness, education, health and waste management, heritage and culture.

Digicel Jamaica Foundation has pledged to provide $10 million to the competition, annually.