$4.5m Run for Mom Donation Strengthens Support for Adolescent Mothers

Adolescent mothers taking part in programmes run by the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation (WCJF) will receive additional assistance following a $4.5 million contribution generated from the Run for Mom 5K.

The money was presented at a recent handover ceremony at the Foundation. It came from the Mother’s Day activity organised by the Heart and Vascular Centre, with backing from Scotiabank and other partners.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, said the donation would help young mothers meet real needs while continuing their studies and caring for their children.

“We are grateful for this support, because the work of the Programme for Adolescent Mothers touches both the present and the future of Jamaica. Through this programme, we are supporting two generations at the same time – a young mother… who is trying to continue her education, and a child whose own future is strengthened when you, as the mother, receive the support you need,” she said.

Ms. Grange praised Heart and Vascular Centre Founder, Dr. Lorren Scott, and the wider support team for turning a Mother’s Day celebration into a project that brings direct help to vulnerable mothers and their families.

The Minister said the WCJF remains important to Jamaica’s development because it assists pregnant adolescents and adolescent mothers with schooling, counselling, life-skills training and preparation to return to the formal education system after giving birth.

She made clear that the Foundation’s purpose is not to promote adolescent pregnancy, but to make sure young mothers are not denied the chance to improve their lives and those of their children.

“There are persons who may misunderstand the work of the Women’s Centre. What we do is give the support that is needed. We educate you. We empower you. We do not judge you,” Ms. Grange stated.

The Minister noted that many young mothers struggle financially after childbirth, with costs linked to transportation, meals, school materials and medical care for their children.

“Encouragement is important. But you need more than that. You need practical support. You need bus fare. You need food for yourself. You need food for your baby. You need school supplies… and you need health care for your little ones,” she said.

Ms. Grange called the $4.5 million donation timely and meaningful, saying it will help adolescent mothers stay engaged with their education and continue accessing the Foundation’s services.

She also pointed to the achievements of past participants who have completed the programme, moved into successful careers and made positive contributions to society.

The Minister urged the young mothers now enrolled to keep working towards their ambitions.

“We believe in your ability to continue. We believe in your right to an education. We believe in your future and in the future of your children,” Ms. Grange declared.

The Run for Mom 5K was held to assist adolescent mothers and support maternal and child health initiatives through the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation.