CPFSA providing psychosocial support to child who survived Walkerswood fire
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) says it is providing psychosocial support to the five-year-old boy who survived the tragic house fire in Walkerswood, St Ann on Sunday morning.
The boy, who was in a different section of the house with his grandmother when the blaze started, narrowly escaped harm in the fire that claimed the lives of his three siblings.
Upon learning of the tragedy, the CPFSA immediately dispatched first responders to the scene to assess the situation and to secure any child/children in need of care and protection. The agency’s investigation has so far revealed that the surviving child had not been attending school since September of 2024.
“Our Child and Family Support Unit (CFSU) is providing psychosocial support to the surviving child. This will include assisting with replacing essential items such as clothing, school uniforms and important documents. We will also be ensuring that the child is returned to school when he is psychologically ready,” said CPFSA Chief Executive Officer Laurette Adams-Thomas.
“We have also referred the child to the Ministry of Justice’s Victim Services Division to ensure that he receives the psychological support needed to help him cope with this profound loss,” she said.
The CPFSA has also arranged for the child’s temporary placement with his paternal family in the same community.
“Ensuring the well-being of this child is our top priority. He has been placed to live with family who live nearby in the community and we will continue to provide the necessary support,” Adams-Thomas stated.
The CPFSA says it remains committed to providing ongoing support to the child to ensure that his safety and welfare are maintained in the aftermath of this tragedy.
