Mustard Seed Communities get support boost amid growing needs

The continuous support being received by Mustard Seed Communities has been bolstered with a donation from the JN Foundation, the philanthropic arm of The Jamaica National Group, aimed at helping to address the increasing needs of the approximately 500 residents across Jamaica in its care.

The donation, which included nearly 4,000 diapers, canned foods, and milk products, comes at a critical time as the organisation expands its care to include 58 Haitian children. The donation was made by members of staff of the JN Group.

Father Garvin Augustine, executive director of Mustard Seed Communities International, expressed gratitude for the support, noting the significant impact such contributions have on the lives of the children and the organisation’s ability to provide for their diverse needs.

“Every little thing makes a difference,” he said during the official handover of the items recently at the Mustard Seed Communities’ Mahoe Drive location in St Andrew. “This donation allows us to bring dignity and joy to the children we care for, many of whom have special needs.”

The JN Foundation’s initiative, ‘Comfort for Christmas’, now in its third consecutive year, focuses on providing much-needed supplies to support the day-to-day operations of Mustard Seed’s apostolates in St James, St Ann, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, and Manchester. This year’s contribution included items essential for the care of children who rely on feeding tubes and specialised dietary products.

Candice Nichols, social impact assessment officer at the JN Foundation, highlighted the growing demand for food and basic supplies following Mustard Seed’s acceptance of Haitian children in need of care at the Jacob’s Ladder apostolate in St Ann earlier this year.

“We acknowledged the increased need and made an effort to include canned food this year alongside our regular donations of diapers and milk products,” Nichols said.

Beyond the holiday season

She disclosed that the JN Foundation’s continued support of Mustard Seed Communities extends beyond the holiday season, with past contributions including emergency aid after Hurricane Beryl. Nichols is urging others to contribute, emphasising that even small donations can make a meaningful impact.

“Sometimes people hesitate to give because they think their contribution isn’t enough,” she explained. “But whether it’s one pack of diapers or $1,000, every effort adds up to help us meet the needs of these children.”

Nichols further stated that with the latest donation, the JN Group, through the JN Foundation, has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Mustard Seed Communities in their shared mission to improve the lives of Jamaica’s most vulnerable citizens.

Mustard Seed Communities care for children with disabilities, abandoned children, and marginalised groups, requiring continuous support. They provide shelter, food, medical supplies, therapeutic interventions, and basic household items. Father Garvin Augustine emphasised that donations of any kind, whether financial or in-kind, help sustain the mission and ensure the children’s well-being.