Digicel Foundation has awarded over J$30 million in grants to 13 community groups as part of its ‘Good Energy, Clean Environment’ campaign.

The grant distribution ceremony took place recently at the Digicel headquarters in downtown Kingston, where community leaders and project representatives gathered to accept the funds for their projects. The grants, which are part of the campaign launched in July 2023, aim to support projects that contribute to cleaner and greener communities.

Miguel ‘Steppa’ Williams, director of strategic planning and community development at the Digicel Foundation, highlighted that there has been an overwhelming response to the campaign. He said: “We received 136 applications from communities across ten parishes. The diversity of the projects showcases the innovative spirit of our communities in addressing environmental challenges.”

The 13 selected projects spans a range of initiatives: solar energy, hydroponics, rainwater harvesting, and recycling. Notably, five of the chosen projects have a longstanding history of executing sustainable initiatives over a seven to 10-year period, a demonstration of their commitment to environmental causes.

Among the recipients is the GraceKennedy Foundation, which stands out for its Kingston Harbour Clean Up Project Educational Experience. CEO Caroline Mahfood, in expressing gratitude for the support, said: “Digicel Foundation is helping us set up an educational site where schoolchildren can learn about the pollution problem facing Kingston Harbour and discover how they can contribute to the solution.”

The Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI) also secured a grant for a water harvesting and greenhouse farming projects in the Alpart Nain and Schwallenburgh communities.

Kemoy Lindsay, director of bauxite lands at the JBI, in explaining the innovative project, said: “After bauxite mining, the pit is retrofitted for water catchment sites, creating a renewable and sustainable infrastructure system benefiting over 200 farmers.”

Another noteworthy project is the rainwater harvesting system at the Christiana Moravian Primary and Infant School. Head girl Shadae Chambers, in sharing her excitement, said: “If we harvest water at our school, we will have enough to sustain us in case of a drought, preventing school closures due to water shortages.”

The total projected impact of the ‘Good Energy, Clean Environment’ projects is an estimated 6,415 individuals across the beneficiary communities, demonstrating the potential for community-driven initiatives that bring about positive change.