JCPD Disburses $7 Million to Assist Members

More than $7 million in economic and empowerment grants and assistive aids were disbursed last financial year (2014/15), by the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD).

According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Annual Performance Report, the sum was distributed by the JCPD among 631 members. This amount represents an increase of 17.6 per cent over the sum in 2013/14.

Almost 32 per cent or $2.4 million of the grants were allocated to “shadow” expenses or assistance to students. It was also reported that males accounted for 61 per cent of the beneficiaries.

According to the JCPD, parents and guardians can access the economic and empowerment grant and assistive aid on behalf of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in cases where they are unable to access the grants themselves.

Applicants for the grant must be able to operate viable projects that will enable them to gain sustainable employment. Groups of PWDs are also eligible to apply for the grant.

Applications must be completed and submitted to the Council for review and approval by the Margaret Moody Sub-Committee of the National Advisory Board.

In the meantime, an additional 27,000 PWDs were last year identified and registered across the island.

To receive a service or benefit, PWDs must be registered with the JCPD. Unregistered PWDs must obtain a medical form from the JCPD or a social worker in the Parish Office and have it completed by a medical doctor who will verify their disability. The completed form is to be returned to the JCPD’s Head Office or to a social worker in the Parish Office, where the registration process is completed.

For more information on the economic empowerment grant and assistive aids and the registration process, the public may contact the JCPD at 926-9374-5.

The JCPD seeks to empower those with a disability by promoting independence through training and development. The Council works closely with other government and non-government agencies to ensure improved quality of life and independence for PWDs.