Community Development
Initiating Change at the Grassroots Level
Our Community Development programme begins its journey at the grassroots level. We traverse from one community to another, collaborating with local groups to foster sustainable social value. Drawing insights from experiences across the Caribbean and globally, we incorporate invaluable teachings into these social initiatives.
Where Digicel grows, so too must
the communities in which we operate.
We achieve this mission through our Community Development portfolio, which comprises two key programmes: the Build Jamaica Grants and Mek A Muckle Grants. These grants are allocated to grassroots organizations to address pressing local issues and drive positive change in Jamaica's most vulnerable areas.
Over the years, we've supported projects focusing on youth development, skills training, agriculture, and social enterprise. Our funding has empowered grantees to establish farm projects and social enterprises, leading to the creation of over 2,798 jobs for local residents.
In the fiscal year 2023-2024, we amplified our impact by awarding 42 grants across our major programmes, positively affecting over 20,350 lives in Jamaica.
903
Community grants provided
60
Persons trained in entrepreneurship
2,798
Jobs have been created through social enterprises
13
'Good Energy Clean Environment' grants provided
Building a Sustainable Future
The Negril Recycling Centre project in Westmoreland is a significant sustainability initiative for the community. Unfortunately, the project encountered a setback due to a fire incident. Through our Build Jamaica Grant, we intervened to facilitate the repair of the building and supply electrical equipment for a glass-crushing machine.
Investment Highlights
Project
COVID Relief
Partner
NGOs & Special Needs Organisations
Beneficiaries
Investments USD
$2,142,943
Project
Social Enterprise & Violence Reduction in Southern Jamaica
Partner
The Queen’s Young Leaders Programme
Beneficiaries
11,193
Investments USD
$930,000
Project
FY23/24 Build Jamaica Grants
Partner
Community Based Organisations
Beneficiaries
6,415
Investments USD
$222,673
Project
FY23/24 Mek A Muckle Grants
Partner
Community Based Organisations
Beneficiaries
13,935
Investments USD
$130,295
Project Media
Good Energy Clean Environment
As recipients of our 'Good Energy Clean Environment' grant, the Schwallenburgh Community Council in St. Ann can now facilitate the transfer of water harvesting and greenhouse technology to farmers in Meyersville and surrounding areas to promote agriculture and economic development.
Sports for Development
BALLAZ Football Academy in Kingston is a sports-based social enterprise empowering young talents for brighter futures through mentorship and athletics. With 60% of its participants from inner-city areas, BALLAZ provides a crucial outlet for personal growth. As part of our Community Development commitment, we renovated their facilities, enhancing the environment for holistic player development.
Science Skills for Life
The renovated science lab at the Spanish Town Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) is now empowering boys from violent and disenfranchised homes with problem-solving skills through hands-on learning. Our US$13,000 Build Jamaica grant funded major infrastructure repairs, new cupboards, tables, science lab equipment and gas and water lines, giving these students access to the tools they need to succeed.
Good Energy Clean Environment
As recipients of our 'Good Energy Clean Environment' grant, the Schwallenburgh Community Council in St. Ann can now facilitate the transfer of water harvesting and greenhouse technology to farmers in Meyersville and surrounding areas to promote agriculture and economic development.
Sports for Development
BALLAZ Football Academy in Kingston is a sports-based social enterprise empowering young talents for brighter futures through mentorship and athletics. With 60% of its participants from inner-city areas, BALLAZ provides a crucial outlet for personal growth. As part of our Community Development commitment, we renovated their facilities, enhancing the environment for holistic player development.
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Discover how the Digicel Foundation is transforming communities through impactful projects. Join us in making a difference today. Learn about our initiatives, get involved, and support our mission for positive social change.