Several Haitian orphans arrived in Jamaica on Thursday morning via ship.

The ship carrying the children, docked at the Ken Wright cruise ship pier in Port Antonio, Portland shortly before 10 am.

The arrival of the orphans, follows an announcement by government that an agreement was reached to allow some Haitian orphans to come to Jamaica, given the ongoing social and political unrest in the french speaking country.

The orphans some of whom are disabled, were lifted from the vessel and placed in wheelchairs and on stretchers, while others were seated on benches at the pier.

They were assisted by their caregivers and given food and beverages.

Health officials were also on site to offer aid.

In a statement on Thursday morning, non-profit group, Mustard Seed Communities, said 59 Haitian children along with 13 caregivers were expected to arrive on Thursday.

The children and care givers are to be housed at the newly built Ephesus Village, Jacob’s Ladder, in Moneague, St Ann.

This is being facilitated through the Memorandum of Understanding that has been signed between Mustard Seed Communities Jamaica and charity group, Haitichildren.

The arrangement is initially for two years and funding will be provided by Haitichildren’s various established donors.

Executive Director of Mustard Seed Communities International, Father Garvin Augustine, says following meetings with government agencies, the organization was granted permission for the children to enter Jamaica legally and to get the necessary care in a safe environment.

Father Garvin says the collaboration offered a lifeline to the Haitian children.

Meantime, Founder and CEO of Haitichildren, Susie Krabecher, says it was important that the children were transported to Jamaica, as due to their disabilities, the children faced mounting challenges primarily because of the escalating violence in Haiti.