The United Way of Jamaica and the Salvation Army have declared that the spirit of giving is alive and well, as Jamaicans have not locked their fists to the less fortunate.
"A lot more persons have selected to do their giving at the one-to-one level, but you do have a lot of Jamaicans from all walks of life who are responding to needs at the personal, community and family level," explained Elon Beckford, the first campaign chairman for the United Way of Jamaica and a member of the board of governors since the inception of the organisation in 1985.
Beckford explained that the organisation had grown steadily over 25 years, with volunteerism and donations remaining high. He said the United Way of Jamaica is a fund-raising organisation that raises resources for the private-voluntary sector, and organisations that have meaningful projects can submit them for consideration of funds.
economic crisis
"We are aware the economic crisis has affected many Jamaicans and corporate entities; however, contributions to the United Way in 2009 saw an increase of 40 per cent over the previous year. Corporate and individual donations amounted to $80.7 million," Beckford said.
The Salvation Army, another charitable organisation, is counting its blessings for the generosity that has been showered on them by Jamaicans. Envoy John Williamson, the development director at the Salvation Army, said over the past year, more people had been seeking the services of the organisation as the unemployment level climbs. The over 20 per cent increase means more mouths to feed, but through consistent donations and volunteerism, the Salvation Army is able to cater to the needy.
"Jamaicans help the Salvation Army enormously. We receive cash and kind, and if it wasn't for the support of the Jamaican people and corporate entities, we wouldn't be able to assist in the way we do," said Williamson.
He revealed that while donations had remained constant, some corporate entities now preferred to donate what they produced. This consists of mostly food items, which has assisted in slashing expenses.
"Jamaica is a land of great potential and we have the opportunity to grow, so we should be getting into that as quickly as we can," said Williamson.
Beckford echoed similar sentiments as he shared his expectations of more donations for this year.