Volunteer audiologists with HSF’s Jamaica Mission Project packed their shorts and T-shirts once again this year and traveled not once, but twice, to the Caribbean Christian Center for the Deaf (CCCD) to provide the gift of sound for over 100 kids.

During the first trip in January, volunteers worked with 146 kids at four different CCCD campuses to test their hearing and evaluate aids. Some only needed their hearing aids adjusted, but most were in need of new ear molds and new aids. Upon return to the States, funds were needed for 127 new ear molds; 18 hearing aid repairs; and 78 new hearing aids before volunteers could return in February.

In six weeks, the supporters of the Foundation helped provide the funds needed for volunteers to return and place new and repaired aids on the children at CCCD. Although the school continues to use sign language at the primary means of communication, hearing aids help the children who do have residual hearing develop their language and communication skills, which can lead to success later in life. Hearing aid companies also helped provide the gift of sound to the children of Jamaica by donating hearing aids and providing discounts for services and repairs needed in order to continue the Foundation’s work in Jamaica. Special thanks to Resound, Westone, Widex and Phonak for providing their support.

Once the supplies were in order, volunteer audiologists once again left the snowy hills of East Tennessee for the sunny beaches of Jamaica. Working 12- and 13-hour days, volunteers fitted the 78 new aids on children who would otherwise go without the aids they need.

To view pictures from the visit, click here.

If you are interested in getting involved with or supporting the Foundation’s Jamaica Mission Project, please email or call our office at (865) 977.0981.