We align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #4: to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all.
According to the U.N., 5% of the global population is unemployed, however this doesn’t account for those who are underemployed, or have seasonal or low-paying jobs that keep them below the poverty level. When these people are included, that number looks much higher – around 33% of workers, according to Gallup.
Having an “equitable” job, whether you are self-employed or work for someone else, means you can be more independent, provide for yourself and family, and have more control over your standard of living. In rural Jamaica, this is especially critical for both women and youth, who oftentimes find themselves dependent on others, or with a lack of access to opportunities for decent work.
Our Equitable Jobs program provides gainful employment to a number of people in rural Jamaica, from artists to farmers, chefs to entrepreneurs, to those supporting our travel teams, and installing and maintaining our rainwater harvesting systems.
Program Highlights: 2013-2020
- Total Program Funding: $20,411
- Equitable Job Opportunities Provided:
- Supporting Jamaican-owned tourism logistics partners, excursion offerings, lodging, dining and more while our travel teams visit the island.
- Creating fair-paying jobs in the installation and ongoing maintenance of our rainwater harvesting systems, completed for our Clean Water Program.
- Supporting organic farmers in our (new in 2020!) Farm To Table Food Relief program. See also: our Healthy Food Program.
- Sponsoring scholarships for the recipient to learn a new skill to become an independent earner in their chosen field (e.g. nursing, cosmetology). See also: our Relevant Education Program.
- Supporting artisans and craftspersons by purchasing their goods at their asking price, made available in our online store for purchase to help fund our programs.
Jah Works, Inc. 