Digicel Foundation Celebrates 20 Years of Creating a World Where No One Gets Left Behind

Kingston, Jamaica - April 01, 2024 - As Digicel Foundation commemorates its 20th anniversary, it reflects on two decades of commitment to fostering positive change across Jamaica.

"In moments of adversity, the strength of a community shines brightest," said Charmaine Daniels, CEO of Digicel Foundation. "Our journey began amidst the rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Ivan, where we recognized the urgent need to support communities in their path towards recovery and resilience. Today, as we celebrate two decades of service, we are immensely proud of the lasting impact we've made together with our partners and beneficiaries."

Since its inception, the Digicel Jamaica Foundation has invested US$46.4 million and touched the lives of over 806,931 individuals through 1,611 impactful projects island wide. The Foundation focuses on three core pillars: Education, Special Needs, and Community Development. Through strategic investments aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, the Foundation has spearheaded initiatives that uplift communities.

Education has always been at the heart of Digicel Foundation's mission. From rebuilding the Lakes Pen Basic School in St. Catherine as its inaugural project to establishing 231 Enrichment Rooms in collaboration with USAID, the Foundation has continually championed access to quality education for all Jamaican children. Notably, the Foundation's commitment to STEAM education has led to the renovation of 13 science labs and the establishment of 42 mobile science units, with 11 smart rooms completed to date as part of bridging the digital divide.

As a leading corporate Foundation in Jamaica focusing on Special Needs, the Digicel Foundation is dedicated to addressing the challenges stemming from insufficient funding and awareness. To date, the Foundation has constructed or significantly renovated 21 Special Needs institutions. A total of 48 ramps in traditional schools have been constructed by the Foundation to create a more inclusive learning environment. The 5K night run and walk has not only raised over USD$457K for Special Needs projects but also served as a platform for raising awareness and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Under its Community Development programme, Digicel Foundation has empowered local initiatives and social enterprises through its grant programmes. With 888 community development projects completed, the Foundation has created 2,798 jobs and trained 60 individuals in entrepreneurship. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation launched "Operation SAFE Mode," a comprehensive campaign valued at over JM$308 million, aimed at sanitizing public areas, advocating for safety measures, providing food assistance, and enabling communities to navigate the challenges of the pandemic.

A distinguishing feature of Digicel Foundation is its dedicated team of volunteers, comprised entirely of Digicel staff members. Having at least ten volunteer activities annually, employees contribute their time and expertise to support community initiatives, embodying the Foundation's ethos of service and solidarity.

As Digicel Foundation looks ahead to the next chapter, it reaffirms its commitment to building a Jamaica where no one gets left behind. With a legacy of transformative impact and a vision for a brighter future, the Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to empower communities and drive sustainable development across the island.