The plight of USAID to developing nations seemed imperiled recently when the Donald Trump administration announced immediate curtailment of funding.
Initially, a spotlight on Africa proved a way focus for concern.
However, the Caribbean and Latin America rallied support from advocates who contend a purposeful, necessity for the agency.
Although the United States Agency for International Development began operation in 1961, former United States’ ambassadors coalesced in 1982 to form the American Friends of Jamaica, a kind of adjunct facilitator to aiding the needy.
Fortunately, they have not abandoned their mission to helping the neediest on the island.
Throughout the decades the union of retired diplomats raised more millions to fund, schools, community centers, health facilities, by hosting auctions, galas and a myriad of fundraising activities in order to fulfil their mission.
Recently the group facilitated a generous donation by Kemar Christopher Dwaine Ottey, a Kingston-born dancehall reggae artist popularly known by the moniker Ding Dong.
Reportedly, Ding Dong attended Clan Carthy Primary School and on Feb. 10 returned to the institution in order to make a J$500.000 donation to the institution.
Apparently, the music specialist also donated the same amount to the Donald Quarrie High School.
“It is commendable that Ding Dong doesn’t forget where he comes from and he is always willing to give back,” Sarah Hsai, AFJ director said.
That alliance and partnership ensures continuation of commitment to empowering students through education and development programs.
Membership to the AFJ consists of former diplomats who share an interest in improving the lives of Jamaicans.
The philanthropic organizers banded together with hopes of instituting charities that would provide prospering legacies and enduring self sufficiency to underserved communities.
To date, more than US$20 million has been raised and distributed to that cause.
In addition, another group formed in 1966.
Friends of Jamaica (FOJS) in Seattle, Washington united west coast expats focussed on providing assistance to education. Their mission is to donate computers, scientific equipment, books and historic enhancers to deficient schools.
Already to their credit, they have contributed benefit funds to students of Tacius Golding High School, Mile Gully Primary and Basic Schools, Porus Basic School, and street kids.
Another friendly collaborator brands Impact Jamaica to aid in empowering nationals in the Caribbean’s acclaimed ‘land of wood and water.’
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the charitable group formed in 2019.
Founded by a registered nurse named Kam, her humble interest was to connect with like-minded nationals who wanted to share the cultural exchange of music and connection. They were motivated to inspire others by donating to the homeland.
Like USAID, the southern-based group made an impact on underprivileged individuals by annually contributing items of need to the elderly, displaced and homeless as well as infirmed citizens of the island.
“Our mission is to improve the quality of life by providing quality resources for the improvement of societal and economical conditions for people living in Jamaica.”
Their web portal elaborated further by boasting a mission to “inspire, empower and educate.”
So far the group has collected blankets, shoes, clothing, hygiene items, sports supplies and other items they believe make an impact.
Perhaps most notable is the Food for the Poor movement which emerged in 1982 and remains the largest charity organization in Jamaica.
Established to ‘link the church of the First World to the church of the First World in a manner that helps both the mentally poor and poor in spirit’ their mission is to renew spirits through prayer.
Allegedly the decision by President Trump’s advisor Elon Musk to abolish USAID has been met with defiance and rebuke.
Simultaneously, the contentious order to slash waste and foreign aid to reliant countries has also been widely embraced by supporters convinced funds could be better spent in the USA.
Jamaica is one of more than 120 countries that benefits from USAID.
While response from benefactors have been marginal, administrators to Jamaica’s agenda and those of Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ have only said they will examine the situation.
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