Supporting Our Communities During COVID 19

In the midst of this pandemic, there are too many people without resources to access some of the basic necessities of life. At this time in Jamaica, there is a surplus of agricultural products that were cultivated by farmers for hotels in the tourist industry and for restaurants. As hotels and restaurants across the island have closed their doors, some of these items are going to waste. And, some of our small farmers are suffering severe and unexpected losses.

We decided to work with our partners on the ground to make the connection between the heart-breaking needs in our communities and the agricultural food surplus. Over the past several weeks, we have delivered fresh and healthy produce to more than 150 families living in underserved communities where we have faithful leaders who ensured that the food was distributed equitably and with transparency while adhering to critical social distancing requirements.

One of our team members on the ground said, “I can tell you, all the persons I delivered packages to were overwhelmed; they literally had nothing to eat. It was both heartwarming and sad." We are grateful for the opportunity to play our part in making a difference in the lives of individuals in the communities of Dela Vega City, Mountain View, Olympic Gardens, and Parade Gardens.

It has also been truly heartwarming to see the overwhelming support provided by so many individuals and organizations in so many countries as they reach out to make a difference in the lives of those in need! Even though we cannot meet every need, we are grateful to play our part in making a difference at this time, even while we look forward to engaging in our planned 2020 initiatives once the pandemic is over.

We cannot lose sight of the need for sustainable solutions in our hurting communities. The COVID 19 pandemic has brought into the spotlight the destructive nature of inequity across the globe. How can it be that the richest 1% own 44% of the world’s wealth? Individuals and organizations that work with the poor live with this sad and inexcusable reality every day.

There is much work to be done. And, in fact, the work may never be done, but the fight for the rights of the most vulnerable is one that must never come to an end. Every life that we touch is important.

This COVID 19 initiative reminds us that our focus should never be on just programs. Our programs are merely vehicles to segway us into lives of real people. And, for this reason, we must approach our work as learners and remain flexible as we impact lives and communities. This initiative, as rewarding as it is on one level, is also sad. Because we know that the lives of those we serve are still broken. These are the forgotten people.

But, here at Jalawelo, we cannot and will never forget!