FOCUS
Creating Economic Opportunities
MDGs ADDRESSED
MDG 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
OVERVIEW
Jordan faces the ongoing challenge of inadequate water supply and lacks the valuable natural resource of oil unlike most of its neighboring countries. The government has instituted broad economic reforms with the goal of improving living standards and attracting foreign investment. Currently, however, the unofficial unemployment rate stands at 30%. A third of the population is estimated to live in poverty.
Our PARTNER
Episcopal Relief and Development is partnering with the Holy Land Institute for the Deaf, one of the educational ministries of the Diocese of Jerusalem. The Institute provides outstanding rehabilitation, education, vocational training, and other services for the deaf.
Our CURRENT PROGRAMS
Episcopal Relief and Development is working with the Jofeh Rehabilitation Center (an affiliate of the Holy Land Institute for the Deaf) in the Jordan Valley, home to several of the country’s most impoverished communities. The Jofeh Community Center serves disabled individuals and their families living in 13 villages in the Jordan Valley.
Episcopal Relief and Development is providing disabled young adults with opportunities to learn employment skills so that they can ensure their families have food and income to purchase basic necessities.
Alleviating Hunger and Creating Economic Opportunities
Episcopal Relief and Development is assisting young adults with disabilities to integrate into the community as productive members who can support themselves and their families.
- Training in carpet weaving, tailoring, sewing, and printing helps disabled young adults gain valuable job skills. Volunteer artisans provide the training in various crafts.
- Micro-finance opportunities and small business management training allow disabled young adults to start small businesses.
