Drum Therapy Project for Jamaica's Welfare Homes

Boys and girls in residential child care under the custody of the Child Protection and Family Services (CPFSA) have been hit with restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the heightened fears and anxieties experienced, their movement is also limited. The Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) and the CPFSA saw it fit to engage these boys and girls in the Drum Therapy Project.

Deemed as a powerful wellness tool, research has demonstrated that Drum Therapy accelerates physical healing and boosts the immune system. In addition specific studies conducted by professionals in the fields of music therapy and mental health show us that drumming reduces tension, anxiety and stress.


Following on the indicators highlighted for individuals in residential child care, the Drum Therapy Project will also provide value by providing therapeutic treatment for reducing the risks associated with child abuse and neglect, and also with the pandemic. There are six (6) homes with approximately 250 children that we will be engaging:

1. Manning Boys Homes, Southfield, St. Elizabeth
2. St. Augustine POS, Chapleton, Clarendon
3. Homestead Place of Safety, Stony Hill, St. Andrew
4. Granville Place of Safety, Granville, Trelawny
5. Muirton Home for Boys (special needs) Manchioneal, Portland
6. Summerfield Home for Girls, Chapleton Clarendon

Your donations will contribute to these residential child care facilities receiving packages of drums (Djembe & Kette), along with other percussion instruments such as tambourines and shakers. Select caregivers from the facilities will also receive drum training from Jesse Golding (on Instagram: @jessegdrumming), taking into consideration Covid-19 protocols to keep all involved safe. Being equipped as trainers, they will be able to train and transfer knowledge gained with other caregivers.

Both organizations have dedicated teams of spirited individuals that will ensure that the Drum Therapy Project will allow for positive development of our country’s youth.

Each contribution will be appreciated.

Each shared message will go to individuals and networks willing to support.