LJS Foundation 2024 Report
Overview
In 2024, we made tremendous strides and impactful contributions at the Lorraine J. Smith Foundation. Guided by our mission to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities, we expanded our reach, strengthened the fabric of our communities, and empowered individuals through transformative initiatives. Our efforts focused on providing education support, engaging in community-based projects, and championing mental health awareness.
Founded by Lorraine Smith, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience and a certification in Trauma, the foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to making a lasting impact. Below is a summary of our key accomplishments and the lives we touched this year.
2024 Initiatives and Accomplishments
Title Sponsor of the “This Is Jamaica” Poetry Competition
- Sponsored prizes for 1st place ($1,000), 2nd place ($500), 3rd place ($250), and $500 for the winning school.
- Supported young Jamaican poets in showcasing their talent and creativity while fostering cultural pride.
Main Sponsor for the Hurricane Beryl Relief Back-to-School Giveaway
- Contributed $1 million Jamaican dollars to support students and families.
- Event held at the Black River Fire Station in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica.
- Almost 200 students served, with 35 receiving book vouchers.
Adoption of Fire Stations Across Jamaica
- Adopted the Kingston Headquarters, Montego Bay, and St. Elizabeth Fire Stations to provide emotional support to first responders.
- Donated a printer to the St. Elizabeth Fire Station to aid their operations.
Fire Prevention and Safety Month Sponsorship
- Sponsored activities in October for fire stations in Montego Bay and Kingston.
- Promoted safety awareness and community preparedness.
Ewarton Primary School Parent’s Day
- Delivered a presentation to over 300 parents, emphasizing the importance of education and community involvement
2024 Community Christmas Giveaway
- Provided essential household items to eight recipients, including a washing machine, kettle, deep fryer (for business purposes), blanket, blender, and a four-burner stove.
Funeral Support for Families
- Offered assistance to three families, helping them during challenging times.
Book Distribution
- Signed and distributed 50 copies of the children’s book, The Day We Met Friend, to schools across Jamaica.
Lives Impacted in 2024
- 200+ Students supported through the Hurricane Beryl Relief Back-to-School event.
- 300+ Attendees engaged at the Ewarton Primary School Parent’s Day event.
- 8 Community Members received household items through the Christmas Giveaway.
- 3 Families received funeral support.
- 50 Children inspired through book signings and giveaways.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The LJS Foundation remains committed to enhancing lives and empowering communities. We thank our supporters, partners, and volunteers who make this work possible. Together, we will continue to create meaningful change in 2025 and beyond.