Parenting Commission Seeking Stakeholder Support for Post-Hurricane Recovery Mission

The National Parenting Support Commission (NPSC) is inviting stakeholders engaged in humanitarian outreach in communities hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa to partner with the agency and its network of more than 700 parent mentors.

“What we’ve managed to do is to tap into the other entities that are delivering care packages and we go with them. So, as packages are being handed out, we’re expanding the care to include psychosocial support,” said Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kaysia Kerr.

She shared that the agency’s initial visit was made to St. Elizabeth last week, and a team is scheduled to return to the parish on Saturday.

“We’re going to be doing this until we feel as if we’ve made some kind of impact,” the CEO added.

Ms. Kerr was addressing the launch of National Parent Month on Wednesday (November 12) at Tivoli Gardens High School in Kingston.

Parent Month 2025, being observed throughout November, will focus on a post-Hurricane Melissa recovery mission under the theme ‘Stronger Parenting Together’.

“The psychosocial support that is being offered cannot be understated. It is an important service. People want to talk and they want to know that people care. They just want an opportunity to tell you their stories, the trauma they have gone through and also for you to help them to goal set,” Ms. Kerr underscored.

For her part, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Dr. Kasan Troupe, urged parents to play an active role in the national recovery process.

“It may be a pat on the shoulder. It may just be your presence. It may be the welcoming of a family member in your own space. Whatever it is, think about what is happening to Jamaica and get involved. Let us build back stronger,” she said.

Stakeholders wishing to partner with the National Parenting Support Commission may contact the agency at 876-788-5606.