INTERNATIONAL Game Technology (IGT) has donated care packages for young mothers at four locations of the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, and to Mary’s Child, the Mustard Seed Communities’ residential home for teen mothers in crisis.

The donations form part of the ongoing support offered by IGT’s after-school advantage programme, which provides access to computers and information technology training to non-profit and non-government-run institutions serving disadvantaged youth.

Gay Williams, director of the Women’s Centre in Kingston, said the items were greatly appreciated.

A total of 108 young women in St Ann’s Bay, Mandeville, Spanish Town and Savanna-la-Mar will receive baby care items including clothing, toiletries and diapers.

“The girls especially need items for their young babies, so these gift baskets were especially welcome,” said Williams.

And Darcy Tulloch-Williams, executive director of Mustard Seed Communities, was quick to add: “These were very sensible gifts. There is no doubt that IGT has brought gifts of love and caring to these young women and their small children, as they seek to rebuild their lives.”

Mary’s Child is currently home to 17 young women (between the ages of 12 and 18 years) and 13 babies. They stay there for an average of nine to 10 months.

The Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, established in 1978, focuses on providing education and training opportunities for adolescent mothers, in addition to offering counselling and guidance on preventing further pregnancies.

Debbie Green, general manager of IGT Jamaica, said the company was happy to help.

“We are extremely happy that we’ve been able to partner with these two outstanding Jamaican organisations that provide invaluable support to young ladies,” Green said.