KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) has received a $10 million donation from businesswoman Patricia Smith, who is a former ward of the State.

The presentation was made during the agency’s 2024 Educational Achievement Awards ceremony held at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston on Thursday, January 30.

Smith, who delivered the keynote address, grew up in Spanish Town, St Catherine, and faced homelessness when her parents migrated, leaving her without support.

She entered State care after her financially challenged grandaunt could no longer care for her.  That was over 50 years ago.

Today, Smith is the Chief Executive Officer of Sweet P Home Care, Incorporation in the United States (US).

In her address, Smith said she was proud of the growth and development of the CPFSA, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

She said the support provided is to help children transition into independent living after leaving State care.

CPFSA Chief Executive Officer, Laurette Adams-Thomas, expressed sincere gratitude to Smith for her generous donation.

“My heart is touched and I feel really blessed. Words would fail to actually explain and describe how grateful we are. There are many lives that are going to be transformed, that are going to be blessed by way of your contribution.

“I hope that God will continue to bless you and enrich your territory. You are here for a purpose, in spite of where you came from. Thank you for considering the CPFSA,” Adams-Thomas said.

— JIS