KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Fi We Children Foundation (FWCF) is urging government agencies to intervene immediately to ensure children affected by the demolition of homes in Cooper’s Pen, Trelawny, can return to school when the new term begins on September 7.

In a statement issued Wednesday, FWCF expressed concern over reports from parents that some children may be unable to return to classes until January as their families continue to face uncertainty following the demolitions.

The foundation stressed that housing instability must not disrupt children’s access to education, noting that every effort must be made to ensure affected students can attend school without unnecessary delay.

FWCF is calling on the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA), the Ministry of Education and Youth, the Ministry of Social Security, and other relevant authorities to immediately deploy support teams to the affected community.

The foundation further called for the immediate deployment of social workers and other relevant professionals to the affected community to conduct assessments, identify vulnerable children and coordinate appropriate support for families.

It noted that the authorities must also urgently provide or facilitate educational relief, including assistance with uniforms, school supplies, housing, transportation and other essential needs where required.

FWCF further urged the Government to engage directly with affected children and their families and to ensure that their views and best interests are considered in any response.

“The start of the school term is days away. There is no justification for waiting until January to address a child’s loss of access to education,” it said.

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