Recently I’ve joined a Jamaican support group just to see what it was like. This particular meeting provided me with very useful information I’d like to share. The two organisations presented and this is what I gathered. So far the organisations below are the most recognised support groups for persons with disabilities.
Jamaica Autism Support Association (JASA),
This is was the first organisation to present. We were introduced to Kathy Chang who informed us parents that JASA was just a support group for parent of children with autism as they do not provide any Financial Aid or Specialised Programs for Autism. She also mentioned that you could volunteer at JASA and to do so just send her a email jasa.jm.2k9@gmail.com. They highlighted that they have a zoom meeting every month. Which I think if you are a parent of a special needs child that you should join in.
Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities
The next presenter was Mrs. Sheerena Thomas Shaw from the JCPD. She mentioned the importance of registering with the Jamaica Council for Persons with disabilities to gain access to the benefits and services they provide. Then she went on to explain how to register.
How do I apply for Disability in Jamaica?
Firstly to qualify the applicant must have a long term impairment or disability. This will then need to be confirmed by a doctor or health care professional. They have provided a medical form you can find here there is also a there’s a separate one for children. Along with the completed certified medical form you are also required to submit the following ;
- JCPD Application form
- Passport Photo certified by JP
- Tax registration Number (TRN)
- National Insurance Scheme (NIS)
- National Id (voters id, passport, drivers license etc)
- Birth Certificate
What you need to register a child
Application for children is similar but forms may vary. Find out which form is required here or call JCPD directly at Phone: 876-968-8373
- JCPD MEDICAL FORM FOR CHILDREN
- TRN
- Birth Certificate
- Passport Size Photo
After Registration
After registering the next step is to apply for the disabilty ID card. To apply you need the following;
- Application Form (collect at head office Kingston)
- Passport Photo
- $500JMD
Once your application is submitted it should be issued within a week. Note that this ID card is optional as it is just proof of disability . If you decide not to apply for the ID you are also able to request a letter for proof of disability. Still the ID comes highly recommended .
Benefits
Some of the benefits you can receive once registered is the access to a variety of grants. Here are a few that Mrs. Shaw discussed along with some figures. For more information contact the JCPD.
- Economic Empowerment Grants ($30,000 – $150,000)
- Educational Assistance Grants ($30,000)
- Assistive Aid grant
- Grants with NHT ($300,000)
note: Grants are not paid to parents/applicants just to institutions
Back to School Grant
This grant is the Educational Assistance Grant which most parents were interested in. Mrs Shaw informed parents that grants are open periodically and the particular one will be open for application in June & July. As mentioned earlier these grants can assist with school supplies and schools fees for your child. Parent will need to provide the following depending on circumstance.
- A letter requesting assistance from JCPD
- new school -acceptance letter
- current school – child’s report card
- school supplies- invoices from store
Conclusion
I have to say that this particular meeting taught me a lot and I will most definitely be applying to the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities. Also if you are a Jamaican parent looking for support feel free to contact us.