Children at the Mustard Seed Communities’ Gift of Hope in Mandeville were presented with 15 Start2Learn Handheld Communication devices by International Game Technology (IGT).
Gift of Hope offers a nurturing home to children with disabilities aged two to 34.
The Start2Learn iCan Talk device, recommended by Occupational Therapist Specialists from the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA), plays a pivotal role in empowering children with communication challenges.
These devices provide a voice for those who need it most, facilitating greater engagement and participation in educational and social activities.
The donation marks the second contribution of assistive learning devices to Mustard Seed Communities as part of IGT’s After School Advantage (ASA) programme, following a previous donation in 2019 of the Tobii Dynavox Speech Case & iPad.
Debbie Green, general manager of IGT Jamaica, highlighted the significance of the company’s After School Advantage (ASA) programme in addressing the ‘Digital Divide’ faced by less fortunate children.
“In today’s increasingly digital society, access to technology is essential for educational and economic advancement,” said Green. “Through ASA, IGT helps bridge this gap by providing computer labs and assistive devices for thousands of youngsters in children’s homes and places of safety across Jamaica and the Caribbean.”
The impact of such technology is profound, as evidenced by the success stories from Mustard Seed Communities.
Administrator Ann Marie Parker reported that two students, previously unable to communicate orally, have successfully integrated into school life through the use of the assistive devices provided by IGT.
Jamaica Highlights 