Care for Children recently visited Jamaica to advance the global movement toward family-based care for vulnerable children. The visit included a screening of the powerful documentary Children of Shanghai, a discussion forum, and a strategic workshop with key stakeholders, all with the goal of strengthening Jamaica's child welfare system and positioning the country as a potential regional hub for reform in the Caribbean.
Held in New Kingston, the documentary screening drew over 150 guests, including representatives from government agencies, childcare organisations, NGOs, and community leaders from across Jamaica. The film tells the real stories of children who once lived in institutions in Shanghai and how through the dedicated work of local partners, they are now growing up in safe, loving families. Attendees shared that they were deeply moved by the stories and expressed excitement at the possibility of Jamaica becoming a hub for family-based care across the Caribbean.
During the event, Care for Children had the honour of meeting with Minister Dana Morris-Dixon, a foster parent herself. The Minister welcomed Care for Children to Jamaica and recognised the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the country's child welfare system to better support vulnerable children and families.
A follow-up workshop brought together senior staff from Jamaica's premier fostering agency, the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPSFA), representing all regions of the country. Care for Children presented our proven programme model and reform framework, which sparked significant interest and lively discussion. The session ended with an active invitation from CPSFA for Care for Children to return for more in-depth conversations and collaboration to map out the specific reforms needed, positioning Jamaica to lead as a Caribbean hub for family-based care.
The visit was motivated by a shared understanding: children grow best in loving families, not institutions. By working together with local partners, governments, and communities, meaningful change is possible one family at a time.
