The Jamaica Down Syndrome Foundation will be hosting the second staging of the Bredrin 2K Walk, on Sunday, November 16, at Hope Gardens.

The event marks the celebration of World Down Syndrome Awareness Month, which is celebrated in October around the world. The walk will bring together families, friends, and supporters in a celebration of health, inclusion, and community under this year’s World Down Syndrome Awareness month theme, “Health Equity”.

The Bredrin 2K Walk is a family-friendly fitness and charity event aimed at promoting awareness for individuals living with Down syndrome, encouraging movement and healthy lifestyles, and fostering community unity across Jamaica.

In light of the recent Hurricane Melissa, this year’s Bredrin 2K staging carries a deeper purpose, as proceeds and donations raised will go directly toward supporting JDSF members and their families who were severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The foundation currently has over 100 members and has already mobilised resources to help families impacted by the hurricane, those whom they were able to contact.

JDSF is also conducting a needs assessment to determine the extent of the help required. Many of these families have faced significant loss and displacement, and the foundation is committed to ensuring that they receive the care and assistance they urgently need.

“As we are in the process of recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Melissa our thoughts are on those who experienced loss, disruption and hardship because of the storm. Our nation has been reminded once more of the prayerful resilience, strength and compassion that define us as Jamaicans,” shared Dr Charmaine Scott, founder and chair of the Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation.

Dr Scott also stated that this year’s Bredrin Walk for Down Syndrome holds deeper significance as it celebrates inclusion, love, and the resilience of the Jamaican spirit.

Despite the challenges brought with Hurricane Melissa, supporters, families, and partners have shown unwavering commitment by continuing to walk and give in support of the cause. The event is dedicated to hope, community, and resilience, honoring individuals with Down syndrome and all Jamaicans rebuilding their lives. Together, the JDSF family continues to move forward with strength and purpose.

October is World Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome and raise public awareness about the condition. It is a period dedicated to promoting acceptance, by highlighting the abilities and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome, and advocating for their rights to health equity and full participation in life.

The Bredrin 2k walk will begin at 8 am with warm-up starting an hour before. Registration is $1,800

JDSF has extended heartfelt thanks to its sponsors whose generosity has made this event possible, noting that their continued partnership underscores a shared commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and nation-building through acts of compassion and community engagement.

Participants are encouraged to register early and join the movement to promote inclusion and resilience. Whether walking or donating, everyone can make a difference in strengthening the Down syndrome community and help make a difference in the lives of those affected by Hurricane Melissa.