KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Education Trust (NET) and Jamaica Impact Incorporation (JAMPACT) brought hope, joy and vital resources to dozens of children and families with the staging of its second Back-to-School Pop-Up Village at Barrett Town Primary & Infant School in St James.

With JAMPACT’s $368,839.22 donation, a total of 25 schools received packages, including three high schools and 22 primary schools across Region 4. Families, educators, community leaders and partners came together on August 22 to remind children that their dreams are seen, their potential is valued and their journey is supported.

Students from Barrett Town Primary & Infant and neighbouring schools experienced a lively celebration filled with cultural activities, interactive challenges, spirited games, and essential school supplies, relieving financial pressure for families.

Latoya Harris-Ghartey, executive director of the National Education Trust, captured the heart of the event, stating, “This year’s pop-up village was about more than giving supplies—it was about building an invested village for our children. We believe every child deserves the tools, encouragement and support network needed to excel. Bringing this initiative to St James demonstrates our commitment to bridging the gap for rural communities, and we are deeply grateful to JAMPACT for their partnership in making this vision a reality.”

For more than 25 years, JAMPACT, a New York-based non-profit organisation made up of passionate Jamaican professionals and friends of Jamaica, has been a shining light for education on the island. Through their unwavering dedication, they have delivered learning materials, infrastructure support and advocacy to schools in need, transforming challenges into opportunities.

Their annual school supplies drive has been a lifeline for countless children, and this year’s extraordinary donation underscores their mission to ensure no child is left behind.

Reflecting on the initiative, Tassie Scarlett, president of JAMPACT, expressed heartfelt pride.

“Last year’s staging in Kingston was a tremendous success, but this year, taking the pop-up village to St James allowed us to touch even more lives. Our belief remains the same: education is the gateway to opportunity. With every child we reach, we plant a seed for a brighter future. This collaboration with the National Education Trust ensures that no matter where a child lives, they can feel supported and equipped for the school year ahead. We at JAMPACT look forward to this continued partnership with NET and reaching even more students in 2026,” Scarlett said.