Savanna la Mar or Sav, as it is locally known, is the largest town in western Jamaica and the capital of Westmoreland Parish. Sav has a population of approximately 18,000 people. The town was founded around 1730 and grew as a sugar shipping port during the colonial era. Sav endured devastating hurricanes in 1748, 1780, 1912, 1948, and in 1988.
Poverty is widespread in Sav.  Gun violence, police corruption, and limited employment options create extreme challenges for local residents.