Special Initiatives
Meeting needs as they arise
Not every need fits in a box. Through our Special Initiatives Programme, PACE Canada provides targeted support to Jamaican early childhood institutions when and where it’s needed most. From providing urgent classroom equipment to supporting healthcare needs and school repairs, this flexible programme ensures we can respond quickly when challenges arise.
What this includes:
- Replacement of broken or missing classroom furniture
- Repairs to roofs, floors, or washroom facilities
- Donations of cleaning supplies, fans, or educational aids
- Temporary emergency support for schools affected by storms or setbacks
Every special initiative is reviewed and approved by PACE to ensure funding is used with care and impact.
The impact is real
Special Initiatives fill the gaps when there’s no one else to step in.
“When our roof was leaking, we didn’t know who to turn to. PACE answered with speed and care. Our classroom is safe again.”
– Principal, Hanover Parish
Past Initiatives
From Tech de Bus to workbook distribution: over the last decade PACE has donated a mobile computer lab, distributed 15,000 workbooks to 300+ schools every year, funded music & movement training, and invested over C$60,000 in building early-childhood spaces – all part of our flexible Special Initiatives programme.
Tech de Bus
(Mobile Computer Lab)
In 2009, PACE donated a bus outfitted with computers to Jamaica’s Ministry of Education – known as Tech de Bus – to serve as a mobile learning lab.
In 2012, the Ministry designated Allman Town Primary School in Kingston as its permanent custodian to benefit multiple Kingston-area schools.
One Laptop per Child Pilot
In 2011, PACE acquired 100 XO laptops in partnership with UWI’s Mona School of Business for Basic Schools in St. Andrew.
The initiative saw measurable improvements in numeracy and literacy outcomes among participating students.
Music & Movement
Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College in Montego Bay received a full suite of musical instruments from PACE for use in early childhood education programs.
Annual workshops led by Dr. Vincent Conville train college students and early childhood educators, who then implement these arts-based learning methods in St. James basic schools.
Workbooks & Learning Resources
Each year, PACE produces 15,000 workbooks for distribution to over 300 basic schools, covering three age levels (ages 3, 4, 5).
In 2012, funding extended to Learning Resource Centres in all 14 Jamaican parishes – supporting ~9,000 practitioners, 125,000 children, and 5,200 parents.
School Building Project
In 2011, PACE contributed C$50,000, plus an additional C$10,000 from RBC and further funds, to support early childhood classroom construction at Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College.
The project was carried out in partnership with Jamaica’s National Education Trust.
Make a Lasting Impact
Even a small donation can help a school stay open, safe, and ready to welcome children every morning.
$150 can help replace a fan, door, or broken desk
Every dollar gives relief where it’s needed most. Tax receipts available. All funds go toward school-specific needs.
