Disaster Response Puerto Rico Project #29888

Long-term Resilience Building in Dominica

by IsraAID

Project Report | Feb 5, 2024
Bee-ing the Change in Dominica

By IsraAID Staff | IsraAID Dominica

In Dominica, climate-related disasters are becoming increasingly frequent and the impact of Hurricane Maria in 2017 continues to serve as a stark reminder of the island's vulnerability. This vulnerability stems in part from the island's dependence on tourism as a primary driver of its economy. Recognizing the critical need for long-term resilience and sustainable recovery programming, IsraAID’s livelihoods programs equip Dominicans with the tools and resources they need to rebuild and withstand future shocks. Working closely with local partners, we provide vocational training, business development and financial literacy workshops, and access to microfinance. Whether empowering Dominicans to thrive in the digital economy through our "Work Online Dominica" program, or supporting farmers to diversify their crops and access new markets, we are committed to fostering entrepreneurial opportunities and economic stability.

The Nature Isle Beekeeping Project, IsraAID’s comprehensive apiculture program, was one of our exciting livelihoods initiatives. We provided participants with the training and equipment needed to establish and manage their own beehives. They learnt about beekeeping best practices, honey harvesting and processing, and even marketing their own products. Equipped with tools, protective gear, and specially designed equipment, they were able to develop a new source of income for themselves and their families. Many graduates are now running thriving honey businesses, supplying the local market, and even exporting their products.

Terri was a participant in 2022; she has since expanded her business “Bee Natural” utilizing the skills and knowledge she acquired from the project. This is what she had to say about the “transformative force of beekeeping”:

“This endeavor has kindled a fervor for nurturing nature, which involves the preservation and planting of trees, essential for both us and the bees' habitats. The bees' valuable contributions, from honey to wax and propolis, have paved the way for a sustainable way of life. The aftermath of Hurricane Maria prompted a shift from wellness practices to crafting natural products, with beeswax taking center stage as a starting point. This pivot transformed my product range and granted me the long-held wish of becoming a beekeeper…In essence, the IsraAID Beekeeping program has propelled me into a role that synergizes with nature and addresses the pressing challenges of our changing world.”

We are honored to be a part of Terri’s journey, and that of our other program graduates. We remain committed to supporting them as they rebuild their livelihoods, achieve financial independence, and contribute to Dominica's sustainable recovery. Thank you for your support!

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Sep 26, 2023
Hurricane Maria: Six Years On

By IsraAID Staff | IsraAID Dominica

When Hurricane Maria made landfall in Dominica six years ago, no one on the small Caribbean island was left unaffected. The Category 5 storm destroyed homes, severed electricity and telephone lines, and flooded roads isolated entire communities.

Over the past six years, we have collaborated closely with the Dominican government and local partners to support their goal of becoming the world's first climate-resilient economy. Dominica is a small island nation at risk from a huge number of natural hazards, including hurricanes, landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The mounting climate crisis has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of such disasters in the region. Rather than resigning themselves to a relentless cycle of devastation, the people of Dominica have chosen to adapt, and we have remained steadfast in our support of their efforts.

Today, we have worked with every school on the island to ensure they are as prepared as possible for all kinds of future disasters. Every school is now equipped with an emergency response plan and the necessary resources to implement it effectively, including the additional needs of children with physical and learning disabilities. These resources include workbooks, teaching plans, emergency drills, and training sessions, all designed to empower teachers, parents, and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to ensure the safety of their communities.

Our income-generation programs have played a pivotal role in enabling Dominicans to cultivate traditional and digital careers that are less reliant on tourism. These initiatives have bolstered the island's economy, mitigating the disruptions that typically accompany disasters. Furthermore, these programs serve as an encouragement for young Dominicans to envision their future on the island, reducing the economic pressures that might otherwise lead to emigration.

Finally, our teams remain dedicated to responding swiftly to emergencies and disasters as they unfold. Our enduring relationships with communities across the island have solidified us as a reliable presence in times of crisis and beyond.

Dominica's success transcends its geographical boundaries, serving as a model of climate resilience in one of the world's most climate-vulnerable regions. We are excited and proud to support this community as they begin to share their hard-earned expertise with their neighbors.

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May 31, 2023
Advocating for Greater Inclusivity & Understanding

By IsraAID Staff | IsraAID Dominica

An estimated 16% of the global population has some form of disability, however, people with disabilities are often marginalized and excluded from society (WHO, 2023).

In addition to focusing on disaster resilience and preparedness, IsraAID’s Safe Schools, Resilient Communities Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction project (est. February 2022) aims to raise awareness of the challenges facing children living with disabilities in Dominica and to start the conversation around what an inclusive society should look like. By sharing impactful stories, educational resources, and empowering messages we work to challenge misconceptions and promote empathy.

As part of this campaign last year IsraAID partnered with Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility Segregated Portfolio Company (CCRIF SPC) and the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, Youth at Risk, Gender Affairs, Seniors Security, and Dominicans with Disabilities to paint a brighter future for Dominicans, one mural at a time. The IsraAid Dominica team visited a number of communities including St. John's Primary School in Portsmouth where, together with the students, we painted murals to celebrate the resilience of persons with disabilities and spread the message of hope.

In partnership with CCRIF SPC IsraAID also developed an animated video series highlighting the stories of persons with disabilities on the island. A new video was released on Fridays throughout the months of April and May this year on our social media platforms, enabling us to create a virtual community where people can connect and ask questions. By gaining a better understanding of the experiences of individuals living with disabilities, the community is more equipped to include all people in their activities - from reducing physical barriers and making it easier to access public places, to offering assistance to those who need additional support.

One of the videos tells the story of Michael who, after losing his sight due to glaucoma, founded the Windward Island Cricket and Sports Association of Person’s with Impaired Vision and became instrumental in the development of blind cricket in the region. In 2011 he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal of Honour by the president for his contribution to social and economic development.

“Anyone who acquires a disability…those persons must be considered as equal in society as any other individual.” - Michael

Your support allows us to continue to break down barriers, foster dialogue, and work towards a more inclusive society for all. Thank you!

Links:

Learn more about Michael's story here

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