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
Economic development
Day care services
Medical assistance
Summer camps
Social assistance
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 individuals to start new businesses, to expand economic activities or to afford what they need in their lives by providing low-cost loans. JMP also offers financial assistance to individuals to learn a craft or to 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, to improve the economic status of the family. Children 1½ to 3 years old can benefit from these services between 7:00 a.m. and 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 two-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.
