The Rehabilitation Services provided by the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) are designed to empower persons with disabilities, offering a range of programs aimed at improving their physical, social, and economic well-being. These services are focused on enhancing independence, quality of life, and inclusion within the broader Jamaican society. Two key components of JCPD’s rehabilitation services are the Income Generating Grants Program – Economic Empowerment Grant and the Assistive Aids Program, which support persons with disabilities in achieving greater self-sufficiency and participation in economic activities.
Economic Empowerment Grant (Income Generating Grants Program)
The Economic Empowerment Grant is a key initiative under the Income Generating Grants Program that provides financial support to persons with disabilities who wish to establish or expand small businesses or income-generating activities. This grant is designed to foster economic independence and self-sufficiency, enabling individuals with disabilities to create and sustain sustainable livelihoods.
Program Features:
- Eligibility: Must be registered with the JCPD. Persons with disabilities who are Jamaican citizens and meet the specific criteria set by JCPD, including having a viable business proposal or income-generating plan.
- Grant Coverage: The program provides funds to cover the costs of starting or expanding small businesses, including equipment, or raw materials.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: JCPD provides ongoing support and monitoring to ensure the sustainability and success of the business initiatives, offering guidance in areas like business growth, marketing, and compliance with relevant regulations.
Assistive Aids Program
The Assistive Aids Program is a vital component of JCPD’s rehabilitation services aimed at improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities by providing access to essential tools and equipment. This program ensures that individuals with mobility, hearing, vision, or other impairments can access devices that enhance their independence, safety, and participation in everyday activities.
Program Features:
The program provides a wide range of assistive aids, therapies such as:
- Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs, walking frames, crutches, prosthetics, and other mobility devices.
- Visual Aids: Glasses, magnifiers, braille devices, and other visual aids to enhance reading and interaction.
- Hearing Aids: Devices to assist individuals with hearing impairments, including hearing aids and amplifiers.
- Technological Aids: Specialized software, voice-assisted devices, and other technology tools that support digital access and communication.
- Therapy Services: Speech, Occupational and Behavioral Therapies
How to Apply:
- Interested individuals can apply for both programs through JCPD by submitting the Competing the request application form that can be collected at the JCPD Office.
- JCPD staff will assist with the application process, conduct necessary evaluations, and provide ongoing support throughout the duration of the program.
- All applicants must be registered clients of the JCPD