THE DISCOVERY CENTRE, GOVERNMENT AND THE STAR FOUNDATION TEAM UP TO OPEN NEW PEDIATRIC THERAPY FACILITY TO EXPAND SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, June 15, 2026 (SKNIS): A major step forward in healthcare and educational support for children was marked with the official opening of a new Pediatric Therapy Facility today (June 15, 2026), a collaborative initiative between The Discovery Centre, the STAR Foundation, and the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The facility, located inside the CMR Building at Lime Kiln, will provide critical outpatient pediatric therapy services, including speech-language therapy and occupational therapy, helping children with speech and language challenges, sensory processing difficulties, motor skill development, and other developmental needs.

Speaking at the grand opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, described the occasion as more than the opening of a building.

“We are not merely cutting a ribbon; we are forging a pact,” Deputy Prime Minister Hanley stated. “This facility represents our commitment to children, families, and caregivers who have long sought accessible, specialised support for developmental challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

The deputy prime minister acknowledged the experiences of families who have struggled to navigate complex healthcare and educational systems while seeking services for their children. He emphasised that the government has listened to those concerns and is committed to delivering meaningful solutions.

The new centre responds to a growing need for coordinated services for children with developmental and learning differences.  Dr. Hanley stressed that Autism Spectrum Disorder is a condition that often requires specialised interventions and support, but should never define an individual’s potential.

“As a nation, we must foster understanding, inclusion, and dignity for every individual. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of where they fall on the autism spectrum,” Dr. Hanley said. “With coordination, compassion, and evidence-based interventions, we can maximize every individual’s functioning and help them reach their fullest potential.”

Deputy Prime Minister Hanley used the ceremony to recognise the contributions of Dr. Sheryl Rosin, PhD, CCC-SLP, whose work in Saint Kitts and Nevis has spanned more than a decade. Dr. Rosin has played a leading role in building national capacity for autism services and developmental support through professional training, parent education, the establishment of the St. Kitts Spectrum Services Centre in 2018, the Caribbean Autism Project, and now the STAR Foundation.  

The Pediatric Therapy Facility is expected to strengthen access to specialised care, improve support for families, and contribute to a more inclusive society where all children have the opportunity to develop their abilities and achieve their potential.

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