This year, the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF) marked its 20th anniversary recently with the 28th School Build Mission.

This took the form of a voluntourism trip to Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, which included 18 travel advisors invited by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) to join the rebuilding of Fyffes Pen Infant and Primary School, also in the parish. For many advisors, it was a life-changing experience. 

Working alongside local tradespeople, teachers, HHJF volunteers and community members gave them the opportunity to experience Jamaica in a way few visitors ever do. They witnessed firsthand the resilience of the community, the warmth of the Jamaican people, and the incredible pride that comes with opening the doors of a new school. 

Beyond the island’s natural beauty, they saw the South Coast destination rich in culture, community, and purpose.

29th School Build Mission being planned

HHJF is currently planning its 29th School Build Mission, scheduled for July 2027, and is in the process of investigating qualified schools and communities. In addition, the foundation is continuing our commitment to disaster recovery, having already completed three school restoration projects for schools impacted by Hurricane Melissa with ongoing support of a few others still underway.

HHFJ is also excited about our sustainability initiatives. Following the successful completion of a pilot solar project at Triumphant Basic School, it is now engaged in fundraising to expand solar energy to the foundation’s 27 previously built schools, helping create more resilient and sustainable learning environments for Jamaica’s children. 

 The next fundraiser is on October 8, 2026, at Palais Royale in Toronto.

 HHFJ grounded in education development

HHJF was founded on a simple belief of the founder, Karl Hale: every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a safe, inspiring environment. More than 20 years ago, a group of passionate Canadians recognised that while education has the power to change lives, many schools in Jamaica lacked the facilities children needed to reach their full potential. 

That vision became Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation with the motto, ‘Participate, Educate, Elevate.’ The motto stems from the belief that by providing the opportunity for an education, society can eliminate the barriers to a child’s success.

While education has always remained the Foundation’s mission, its impact has grown significantly over the past two decades. What began as a grassroots effort has evolved into one of Canada’s longest-running charitable school-building initiatives in Jamaica.

Along the way, Helping Hands has developed strong partnerships with educators, local communities, government representatives, volunteers, donors, and corporate supporters who all share a commitment to improving educational opportunities. The Foundation has also expanded the volunteer experience.