Deaf Child Hope Team Returns From Jamaica

Supporting Deaf Children in Jamaica: A Mission to Empower and Educate

In early October, a Deaf Child Hope mission team traveled to Jamaica to support one of our partners working with deaf children in poverty. This organization operates across three school campuses and a Deaf Village, providing education, shelter, and a supportive community for deaf children who might otherwise struggle with isolation and limited opportunities.

Our team spent most of the week at a residential school for deaf children located in the mountainous region of Jamaica. This school serves as both an educational institution and a home, ensuring that its 40+ students have access to language, education, and daily care. While staying on campus, our team witnessed firsthand the dedication of teachers, dorm parents, kitchen staff, and local leaders who work tirelessly to create a nurturing environment.

A Community of Support and Leadership

At this residential deaf school, students are more than just classmates—they are family. Older students naturally take on leadership roles, ensuring that younger children are included, supported, and cared for. Daily life includes:

• Group meals prepared by an incredible kitchen staff
• Dorm parents providing structure and support
• Students helping with chores and farm work
• Daily activities including school, sports, and worship

This sense of community and shared responsibility is crucial for deaf children in poverty, as it fosters independence, teamwork, and emotional well-being.

The Importance of Sign Language Access

A common misconception is that sign language is universal, but every country has its own. In Jamaica, Jamaican Sign Language (JSL) is used, which has similarities to American Sign Language (ASL) but remains distinct. Some of our team members who knew ASL were able to communicate more easily here than in other countries where we partner. However, it’s important to recognize that deaf children around the world often lack access to sign language education, leaving them unable to communicate effectively.

Additionally, many people assume that English is the only language spoken in Jamaica, but the country also has a widely used Creole language called Patwa (Patois), which blends English and West African influences.

Sustainability and Worship in the Deaf Community

This deaf school in Jamaica also operates a working farm, which provides food for the students and staff while generating revenue. The farm sells:

• Piglets and chickens
• Eggs and milk
• Fresh produce

Sustainability is key to ensuring that deaf children in poverty receive consistent nutritional support and financial resources.

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to education and daily care, faith is a core part of life at this campus. The students attend church services led by a deaf pastor, and daily worship sessions are conducted entirely in sign language. As a final farewell gift to our team, a group of students performed worship songs in JSL—a deeply moving and beautiful experience.

Continuing the Mission

Saying goodbye was difficult, but we left with hearts full of gratitude for the work being done to provide education, support, and love to deaf children in Jamaica. These schools are changing lives by ensuring that deaf children have access to sign language, a safe home, and a bright future.

Would you like to help support deaf children in need?