The Heart Behind
Valda Mae Cares
The senior and youth populations across some of the Caribbean’s most cherished islands—including Jamaica (view demographics below), Puerto Rico (view demographics below), St. Martin, Dominican Republic, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago—face deeply interconnected challenges shaped by economic instability, limited healthcare access, and gaps in educational and leadership opportunities.
At the same time, many individuals within the Caribbean diaspora leave their home countries in pursuit of better financial stability and healthcare systems in regions such as North America and the United Kingdom. While this migration creates opportunity for individuals and families, it often results in a loss of local talent, mentorship, and community investment—leaving vulnerable populations with fewer resources and support systems.
We aim to serve as a bridge between the diaspora and their home countries—reconnecting talent, resources, and opportunity to strengthen communities from within. By mobilizing global networks and reinvesting in local capacity, we can help close critical gaps, empower the next generation, and ensure that seniors receive the care and dignity they deserve.
Jamaican Demographics
Poverty rate: Estimated at 16–20% (with higher rates in certain parishes), impacting access to stable housing, healthcare, and educational attainment—though notably lower than some Caribbean counterparts.
Elderly population (65+): Over 13% and rising, with many living on fixed incomes and lacking adequate care services.
Youth population (15–29): Approximately 27%, with high unemployment rates and limited structured leadership training.
13%
Elderly Population (65+)
28% -30%
Children Under 18
27%
Youth Population (15-29)
45%-50%
Working Age Population (25-64)
Poverty rate: Estimated at 40%+, significantly higher than the U.S. mainland, affecting access to education, healthcare, and stable housing.
Puerto Rican Demographics
21%
21%-22%
Elderly Population (65+)
Youth Population (15-29)
41%
50%-51%
Children Under 18
Working Age Population (25-64)
Elderly population (65+): Approximately 21% and rapidly increasing, with many seniors facing healthcare access challenges, fixed incomes, and migration-related family separation.
Youth population (15–29): Roughly 20–22%, with persistent outmigration to the mainland U.S., limited local job opportunities, and gaps in workforce development pathways.