The number one wish for many wards living in children's homes nationwide is to spend Christmas with a family, says public relations and communication manager for the Child Development Agency (CDA), Rashida St Juste. And families across Jamaica could make that dream come true
"A lot of them wish they could be with a family for the holiday," said St Juste.
The agency coordinates a holiday programme in which Jamaican families are encouraged to welcome a child into their homes for Christmas. The theme for this year's campaign is 'Share Your Heart, Open Your Home'.
"Anyone is eligible but they go through a screening process before," said St Juste.
The process of getting on board is relatively easy, said Loris Carroll Brown, children's officer from the CDA.
Assessment done
Single women or interested families should first call the agency, and submit personal data such as names, addresses and telephone numbers. Thereafter, a representative from the agency visits the applicant's home and conducts an assessment.
If families meet the criteria, arrangements are made to meet the child.
Persons can choose their preference of gender and age range.
Carroll Brown said the spirits of children who spend the holidays with families are generally lifted.
"They are more settled because they now know that someone, apart from their caregivers, loves them," she said.
In addition, Carroll Brown said some holiday stayovers mature into long-term fostering.
Treats and other activities are organised for children in state homes for Christmas, which help to generate the spirit and warmth of the festive season. Corporate entities also help to spread cheer to children's homes during the Yuletide season by hosting fun days or donating Christmas treats.
St Juste told The Gleaner that the agency has already received several offers from the business sector to host treats for children. Service clubs, she added, have also offered to deliver treats.
michelle-ann@gleanerjm.com
If you're interested in taking home a child for Christmas, call the Child Development Agency,
Child Care and Protection Adoption Services Headquarters at 948-7206/948-2841-2/948-6678/922-8857 or toll free, 1-888-991-3353.