In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the YeCats Mobile Resource Centre has introduced the YeCats Mobile Classroom, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at restoring educational stability in Jamaica’s hardest-hit areas. Launched on November 17 in Black River, the program has already begun transforming the lives of children, offering emergency literacy and numeracy support. Spearheaded by Stacey Robinson, founder and literacy coach of YeCats, the mobile classroom is a beacon of hope for communities grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. The initiative concluded its first week with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony attended by community leaders, educators, and sponsors. As a fully mobile program, YeCats plans to expand its operations to other hurricane-affected regions, providing eight weeks of structured, rehabilitative learning in each location. Robinson emphasized the program’s mission: “Education must continue, even in the midst of crisis. Our children deserve stability, confidence, and an opportunity to keep learning.” Parents and students have already reported life-changing results. Marsha, a mother who volunteered at the mobile classroom, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am so excited and glad that right now the kids can come out and go to school.” Children, too, are showing remarkable emotional and behavioral transformations. An 11-year-old boy, previously known for disciplinary issues, shared his commitment to change, stating, “Miss, mi aguh change and behave better.” The program’s innovative YeCats Sound Box, a phonics system, is a cornerstone of the curriculum, designed to build confident, fluent readers. Teachers and parents will also receive training to ensure continued progress outside the classroom. The initiative is supported by key partners, including Matthews and Clarke, Murray’s, and World Central Kitchen. Sandie Saunders of Matthews and Clarke Limited was particularly praised for her early endorsement, which was instrumental in mobilizing resources. Classes are held Mondays to Wednesdays in a safe learning tent donated by Murray’s, focusing on reading, writing, mathematics, and life skills. The program’s holistic approach includes one hour dedicated to activities supporting physical, emotional, and mental development, crucial for children recovering from trauma. With 70 students registering on the first day and 120 by the second, the program’s rapid growth underscores the urgent need for academic continuity and psychosocial support in disaster-stricken areas.
YeCats launches mobile classroom in Black River to support children after Hurricane Melissa
