Importance Of Fathers’ Involvement In Child-rearing Highlighted

State Minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon. Krystal Lee, is encouraging fathers to continue to play an active role in child-rearing and supporting the mothers of their children.

Speaking at a maternal health outreach event held at the Mount Carey Health Centre in St. James on Wednesday (Dec.17), Ms. Lee noted that shared responsibility in child-rearing can lead to healthier families, ensuring the well-being of both mothers and children.

“We want to continue to encourage our men to give that support in assisting to take care of their babies and also supporting our mommies and our family life as best as possible. It’s very important,” she said.

The outreach marked the sixth in a series of interventions aimed at assisting expectant and new mothers in parishes most affected by Hurricane Melissa.

Mothers received care packages containing essential food items to support proper nutrition, as well as personal and baby care supplies, iron tablets, folic acid and other supplements, and mosquito repellent and nets.

In keeping with the Christmas season, toys were gifted to children at the event.

Ms. Lee stated that over the past three weeks, the Ministry has conducted similar outreach activities in communities such as Savanna-La-Mar, Westmoreland; Granville, St. James; Black River, St. Elizabeth; Albert Town, Trelawny; and Brown’s Town, St. Ann.

“We have chosen to be among our mommies, both expected and new mommies in the worst effective parishes, because we know that during this time you need all the support that you can get. We want you to know that you’re not alone,” she said.

The State Minister noted that healthcare workers are available to provide counselling and guidance and reminded mothers that the national mental health line, 888-639-5433, is available if they need support.

New mother, Yantia Gordon, noted the critical importance of the health checks offered, especially in protecting babies from illnesses in the hurricane’s aftermath. Her advice to other mothers is to stay strong and have faith.

Another attendee, Casey Willis, also expressed gratitude for the assistance provided, particularly for the residents impacted by the hurricane .

The outreach sessions involve support from partners such as Red Cross, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).