The Ministry of Labour and Social Safety will probably be intensifying efforts to advance the rights and welfare of individuals with disabilities in Jamaica.
Portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., made the disclosure whereas addressing the handover of care packages by the Jamaica Council for Individuals with Disabilities (JCPD) at Cheshire Village, St. Andrew on Tuesday (Dec. 31).
“Our aim is to advance a rigorous and complete nationwide programme to develop extra understanding throughout Jamaica, of individuals with disabilities, and to advertise their well-being and rights,” he stated.
The Minister famous Authorities’s dedication to creating an enabling society for individuals with disabilities and assure respect for all, via the passage of laws and different measures.
He cited a number of initiatives undertaken in 2024 to make sure higher inclusion for the disabled neighborhood, together with incorporating individuals within the Abroad Employment Programme. “They’re doing a tremendous job,” he identified.
Situated at 7 Golding Circle, Cheshire Village is a 20-house neighborhood for individuals with disabilities.
Yearly, the JCPD distributes meals packages to the homeowners through the Christmas vacation season.
The initiative goals to handle the wants of residents who’re predominantly unemployed or under-employed, making certain they’ve provisions for the festive interval.
The JCPD additionally collaborated with the United Nations Youngsters Fund (UNICEF) to ship particular packages to households which embrace youngsters with disabilities.
“We’re grateful,” stated Appearing President of the Cheshire Village Citizen Affiliation, Estella Campbell, in welcoming the donation of things from the JCPD.
She additionally welcomed the Ministry’s elevated give attention to creating an inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
Government Director of the JCPD, Dr. Christine Hendricks, famous the “constant” efforts by the Authorities to make sure that individuals with disabilities can reside independently and that their rights and dignity are as revered as everybody else within the society.”
Member of Parliament for St. Andrew Jap, the place Cheshire Village is positioned, Hon. Fayval Williams, stated the donation of things is appreciated by all of the residents.
She stated she continues to be “really proud” of what the Administration has been doing to lift the “stature of individuals with disabilities.”
The JCPD is an company of the Ministry of Labour and Social Safety, with a mission to make sure that individuals with disabilities are handled pretty and equally and revel in the identical basic rights as different folks.
