JJs India Project -Supporting Self-Help Initiatives
Background
Since 2002 I have been visiting Shillong, Meghalya, India and through the generous donations of kind sponsors, friends, colleagues and ESB ElectriAid we have supported a range of projects in Shillong and surrounding areas that include:
- Providence School Shillong (a school for the poorest of the poor)
- The school for the Blind run by Bethany Society in Shillong
- A Malaria treatment project run by the Nirmali Sisters in the Khasi hills
- Micro Credit pilot projects in Shillong & Tura
Focus 2010
In 2004 we started a Revolving Fund to support micro credit initiatives for poor people who are trying to start micro enterprises in Shillong and surrounding villages. This was extended to Tura in 2006. Typical enterprises are piggeries, poultry, mini bakeries, small shops, bamboo arts & crafts etc.
To date many families who would otherwise not have been able to get their micro-enterprises up and running have been supported through the fund. Loans from the fund are organised through Self Help Groups and approved by a steering committee. The committee report to me on a quarterly basis.
This year, because of our positive experience to date the focus is to continue developing Micro Credit through Self Help Groups to support micro enterprise development. In 2008 following a review of progress we agreed that the fund would concentrate on supporting enterprises that do not displace similar ones in the village.
In addition to the €33,000 donations mentioned above The Revolving Fund currently (20th July 2010) stands at €41,000 and the target is to grow it to €50,000
When I visit Shillong this Autumn I will review progress with local people and expand the fund to support the development of more micro-enterprises in the area.
All Donations Go Direct To Self-Help Projects
Your Support make a real difference
Donations can be made to:
'JJODwyer India Fund'
the Brook,
Rosslyn Court,
Bray,
Co Wicklow,
Ireland
