‘Lots of Socks’

On March 21, people across the world will recognise World Down Syndrome Day, a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for inclusion.

In Jamaica, the Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation (JDSF) is leading the charge with the ‘Lots of Socks’ campaign, a nationwide initiative designed to spark conversations, promote understanding, and encourage active participation in the cause.

World Down Syndrome Day is more than just a date on the calendar – it is an opportunity to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome and advocate for their rightful place in society.

JDSF is committed to ensuring that Jamaica plays a significant role in this movement by fostering inclusivity, breaking down barriers, and empowering individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

“The ‘Lots of Socks’ campaign encourages individuals, schools, businesses, and communities to wear brightly coloured or mismatched socks as a powerful yet simple symbol of the extra chromosome that individuals with Down syndrome have,” the foundation said.

“This lighthearted but meaningful gesture serves as a reminder that differences should not divide us but rather be embraced and celebrated. Every pair of mismatched socks represents a commitment to inclusion, understanding, and respect.”

JDSF invites everyone to wear their most colourful, fun, and mismatched socks on Friday, March 21, take a picture, and share it on Instagram. Tag @jadownsyndrome and use #LotsOfSocks to show solidarity and spread awareness far and wide.

By simply sharing your socks, you help amplify the message of acceptance, inclusion, and love for individuals with Down syndrome.

“Beyond raising awareness, we also encourage the public to support the foundation’s programmes by making financial contributions, which directly aid individuals with Down syndrome and their families,” said Dr Charmaine Scott, Chairperson of JDSF.

JDSF offers a range of services to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families, including counselling sessions for parents, bimonthly parent support meetings, and the provision of a parent guide and other print resources for new parents.

Additionally, the foundation provides free annual eye and hearing screenings, free pneumococcal vaccines for children with Down syndrome – who are at increased risk of life-threatening infections – and dance classes to promote physical activity and self-expression.

The foundation also hosts several annual events, such as a Fun Day, Bredrin 2k Walk, the JDSF Medical Symposium, and the Lift UP Down’s Benefit Concert, all aimed at fostering community engagement and support.

To further assist families, JDSF provides grants to active members and organises activities in observance of October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Through these initiatives, the foundation continues to create a more inclusive society where individuals with Down syndrome can thrive.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

The Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation is a nonprofit organisation established on October 24, 2007, the year after World Down Syndrome Day was first observed.

JDSF is a member of Down Syndrome International (DSI) and was signature to the 2011 successful appeal of DSI to the United Nations to recognise March 21 as UN World Down Syndrome Day.

Donations to JDSF can be made through the National Commercial Bank (NCB), Oxford Road Branch, Account Name: Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation, Chequing Account #: 211061839.

For more information, to get involved, or to make a donation, contact: Email: jamaicadownssyndrome@cwjamaica.com. Phone: (876) 978 0829. Instagram & Facebook: @JADownSyndrome. Website: https://www.downsyndromejamaica.org/