KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Flow Foundation has contributed some $4.5 million to support back-to-school needs across Jamaica, assisting 1,000 students as they prepare for the new school year.

The foundation’s support spans 25 schools, community centres and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Among them are the SOS Children’s Village, Austin Primary School, Padmore Youth Upliftment Foundation, and Lime Tree Grove Youth Committee.

Three beneficiaries of JUMP, the digital literacy and inclusion programme established by Liberty Caribbean Foundation in 2023 to support vulnerable families, will also receive assistance.

Kasheem Baugh and daughter Cobianique are all set for school after getting school supplies courtesy of the Flow Foundation.

Contributions include school supplies, book vouchers and other forms of assistance to ensure students can enter the new academic year ready to learn.

As part of the initiative, approximately 100 children from Old Harbour Bay Primary School will receive book vouchers and enjoy complimentary medical services along with a fun day featuring rides, a bounce house and refreshments on Thursday, August 28.

Rhys Campbell, executive director of the Flow Foundation, emphasised the importance of investing in education and supporting families.

Christine Cameron and daughter Jodiann Campbell review their booklist while shopping for school supplies at Kingston Book Shop recently.

“Education is the most powerful tool we can use to transform lives and communities. At Flow Foundation, we believe no child should be held back because of lack of resources. This contribution is part of our ongoing commitment to empowering young Jamaicans, supporting parents, and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive,” Campbell said.

Parents have expressed deep gratitude for the assistance provided. Christine Cameron, a mother of two and JUMP beneficiary, shared how the support has helped her family.

“Back-to-school can be a stressful time, and as a parent, you want to give your children everything they need but sometimes the budget just doesn’t stretch,” said Cameron. “The help we received from the Flow Foundation came at the right time. It eased the pressure and allowed me to focus on getting my kids excited and ready for school. We are truly grateful.”