WITH RECENT statistics showing the nation's unemployment rate at 30 per cent, a newly-launched Food for the Poor-sponsored initiative, 'The Revolving Goat Programme', could be a significant a factor in further reducing that figure.
The six-month initiative, which presently operates in inner-city communities of St. Catherine, has received over 80 goats, valued over US$15,000. Some 60 families selected in the communities of Tawes Pen, Windsor, Church Pen, Ellerslie Pen, Bushy Park, Pedro, Mead and Bell Field will benefit from the programme.
INDEPENDENCE SECURED
Delroy Pedley, one of the beneficiaries from Tawes Pen in St. Catherine, said the new initiative has helped to secure his independence and boost his self-esteem. He also acknowledged that this new programme is a "new phenomenon" that is attracting widespread interest among youths in his community.
The community also receives donation of food items from Food For the Poor in an effort to reduce the food bill of those involved in the programme.
Each beneficiary will receive either a Nubian or a Boar goat which have been imported from the United States. One of the highlight of this goat programme is that not only will it be creating new employment for inner-city youths, but it will further develop and increase the declining local goat stock.
AIMS TO EMPOWER
George Thompson, director for the Rural Economic and Agricultural Programme at Food For the Poor, said the revolving goat programme is aimed at empowering residents of poor communities by fostering deeper cooperation and responsible behaviour among citizens in these communities.
According to Mr. Thompson, "The recipients will be working towards replenishing the existing stock by donating the kids (offsprings) to their neighbours. But in so doing, they will we ensuring sustainability and expansion of the programme, and eventually bring about hope and self-reliance among inner-city folks."
Food For the Poor is a Christian relief and development organisation that implements programmes to assist the destitute.
