Charles Jr leads 3rd town hall consultation in Portmore for PATH transformation

Highest number of beneficiaries registered in St Catherine

TO IMPROVE the services offered by the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH) and address Jamaica’s social development issues, Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr has been hosting a series of town hall consultation sessions in an effort to transform the programme.

The third town hall is set to take place on Wednesday at the HEART College of Construction Services Auditorium in Portmore, St Catherine, the parish with the highest number of PATH beneficiaries, totalling 43,163.

The town hall meetings highlight the government’s continued efforts to create an environment where citizens can achieve social mobility.

“This government recognises the impact PATH has had on the lives of many Jamaicans, and we remain committed to enhancing the programme to improve its services. We firmly believe that progress necessitates change and are eager to have an open conversation with key stakeholders to share their concerns and suggestions for the transformation of the programme,” Charles Jr highlighted.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security i s focused on implementing a new PATH aimed at empowering the most vulnerable families and creating an equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive.

COMMITTED TO ENHANCING SERVICES

Charles Jr further emphasised the social security ministry’s commitment to implementing an advanced system to enhance the efficiency of PATH services.

“Modifying the existing payment structure and payment collection methods is a primary focus of the ministry to foster efficiency and productivity. Our goal is to support individuals in need, motivating them to rise above their circumstances and excel regardless of their socioeconomic background.”

PATH is Jamaica’s flagship social assistance programme, providing cash grants to approximately 300,000 beneficiaries. Recognising this, the ministry said it aims to continue improving PATH services by adopting a strategic approach to targeting the most critical areas that require overhaul.

“Our aim is to expand access to the programme and improve the lives of individuals on PATH so they can achieve total independence. We intend to challenge, interrogate, and examine the programme so that social mobility is a common feature for our beneficiaries,” added Charles Jr.