Our work in the Middle East
The Jinishian Memorial Program (JMP) has been operating in the Middle East
since 1967. There are currently six JMP sites in four countries in this region.
Programs that assist Armenians in this region include:
Community Development
JMP empowers communities to effectively coalesce resources
to address the current needs and enhance the future of communities based on local
priorities. Even though JMP works largely with Armenian communities, JMP encourages
families and neighbors to work together to solve problems regardless of religion
or ethnic background.
Economic Development
JMP’s revolving loan fund assists individual’s
start new businesses, expand economic activities, or afford what they need in
their lives by providing low-cost loans.
JMP also offers financial assistance to individuals
to learn a craft or study a vocation in a technical institution or vocation center.
Day Care Services
JMP provides access to affordable day care services
for working mothers with low income in Beirut, Lebanon in order to improve the
economic status of the family. Children one and a half to three years old
can benefit from these services between 7:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m. six days a week.
Hot meals are provided along with educational activities to develop the well
being of the children. Access to day care services is also available to mothers
who are chronically ill and need assistance with child care.
The day care service includes a 2-month Summer Playground Program for the
children of the center and their older siblings. The program encompasses educational
and recreational activities, as well as singing and bible stories.
Summer Camps
JMP’s Summer Camps offer poverty-stricken children a positive, fun,
and safe environment, a respite from their onerous lives. Daily programs include
topics on the environment, culture, history, dance, music, language, religion,
and sports. Activities are stimulating and entertaining; arts and crafts, outdoor
and indoor games, hiking, talent shows, and music classes. While emphasizing
safety and having fun, campers learn life skills, gain independence, and make
lasting friendships. Among other things, the camps teach children how to cope
with stress and anxiety and help build their problem-solving and decision-making
skills. In addition to the activities, the summer camps provide children with
many nutritious meals.
Medical Assistance
To relieve the economic burden and assist those without access to affordable
healthcare, JMP offers subsidized medications, burial services, and financial
assistance for hospital care, dental care, and institutional and mental health
care. In 2006, JMP provided over 2000 individuals with medical assistance.
Along with the delivery of medical assistance, JMP offers clients a chance
to participate in health education workshops that focus on preventative care.
Social Assistance
JMP seeks to reduce human suffering and help individuals in need function
more effectively in their respective communities by providing social services
and assistance that include casework, guidance and counseling, and when necessary
referring severe cases to public or private institutions for appropriate treatment.
In addition to the social services, monetary assistance is given to needy
families and individuals to help with medication expenses, rent payments, home
repairs, winter provisions, and food distribution. |
