Programs : Livelihood Program

While an important and necessary starting point, ICM recognizes that merely providing food and medical are is not a permanent solution to the consequences of, and suffering caused by, long-term poverty. Without a livelihood, there is little hope for real change. ICM’s Livelihood Program, still in its developing stages, seeks to help many recipients of its Feeding and Medical Programs by training them with marketable job skills which will better equip them to be self-sufficient.

The Livelihood Program is researching numerous ways of providing self-sustaining, income-providing skills and resources to its recipients. Several training, education and business opportunities are currently being offered by ICM. Some of these programs are highlighted below.

Case Study: Computer School

In FY 04/05, the General Santos City government gave ICM an unused, half-constructed building to be completed by ICM and used to house a computer learning center for the community. Under ICM’s management, the building has been completed and in the next fiscal year, classes will begin. Based on the experience learned from ICM’s 2002 pilot computer training program in Bacolod (which forty students attended), the GenSan program will teach unemployed high school graduates computer repair skills, office applications, and other information technology skills which are much in demand by the community. We are very grateful to the General Santos City government and look forward to a long and fruitful partnership on this and future programs.

Case Study: Integrated Farming School

In northern Negros Island, the final construction phase is set to begin on ICM’s agricultural training center. Settled among some of the poorest rural communities, the Integrated Farming School will not only teach basic farming techniques, but will also provide instruction in more complex agricultural skills such as animal husbandry and soil conservation. Those going through the program will be able to select courses which will best equip them for success within the agricultural conditions found where they live. Sutdents will benefit from hands-on demonstrations and practicums made possible by the fully operational, 4.3 hectacre farm on the premises.

Construction is schedules for completion during the 2006/07 fiscal year. Classes will begin shortly thereafter.

Other livelihood Programs offered by ICM include:

• Hollow Block Manufacturing: Instruction is provided in production of concrete hollow blocks – a primary construction component in the Philippines.
• Handicraft: Training is offered in the design, creation and marketing of jewelry, bags, cards, and other goods using native materials.