KINGSTON, Jamaica –The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) recently hosted a Solidarity Fair at Don’s Auto World in Black River, bringing critical social support services directly to residents of St Elizabeth as part of the national rollout of the Solidarity Programme.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr., emphasied that “Solidarity is more than a grant—it is a gateway programme designed to connect Jamaicans with the tools and opportunities needed to build sustainable pathways out of poverty”.

He noted that beneficiaries can access referrals for job training through HEART/NSTA, support through the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), assistance in obtaining civil documents, and other wraparound services.

“Solidarity is about empowerment. Yes, the $20,000 grant provides some immediate relief—but the real transformation comes from connecting people to longterm term training, employment, and social services that can change lives. Even if you don’t have all your documents, talk to us,” Charles Jr urged attendees. “Help is available, and every step forward brings you closer to receiving the support you deserve”.

The Black River Solidarity Fair forms part of a broader national effort to strengthen community partnerships, remove barriers, and bring essential services directly to citizens.

To date, solidarity fairs have been held in Portland, St Mary, Manchester, Kingston, and St Andrew, with Sslidarity teams also participating in MLSS community outreach events across several parishes.

The fairs provide on-the-spot support with assistance from partner agencies such as the NIS, PATH, and Tax Administration Jamaica.

The MLSS says implementation continues in phases to ensure that those most in need are prioritised, namely:

• Phase One: Constituency offices mobilised to upload applications

• Phase Two: Partnerships with churches, NGOs, and civil society to identify vulnerable individuals

• Phase Three: Upcoming national self-referral phase for direct online applications.