We are very excited about the new direction that we are headed in here at Direct Abundance;  it has always been our dream to expand beyond our work in Belize and now that dream is becoming a reality with the start of our new Jamaican initiative.  This dream began with a recent trip that founder Joanne O’Brien took to Jamaica in late September, 2011.  On this trip, Joanne met Terri Shomo, who had a 25+ year unfulfilled dream to help the people of Jamaica.  After returning from Jamaica, the two women decided to take a leap of faith and plunge head-long into a program of action in this beautiful country.

Jamaica is a very beautiful country, filled with breathtaking beaches, turquoise water, balmy weather and friendly, open people.  But Jamaica is also a VERY poor country.  The average income for a Jamaican family is under $4,000US a year, and this is for a family of 4-6.  The minimum wage in Jamaica is $1.40 an hour and the unemployment rate is over %35.  The vast majority of Jamaican homes have no running water and no indoor plumbing.  Although primary school is free, children must wear uniforms that are not provided or they cannot attend.  Also, transportation is NOT provided.  Books, paper, pencils and other supplies must be purchased by the parents.  This can add up to a cost of $40 to almost $100 a month for each school student, forcing many mothers to make the hard choice between buying rice and sending their child to school.  Most Jamaicans have no cars, no medical insurance and no retirement plans.  Despite all of the hardships that they face, the Jamaican people remain friendly and open.  Direct Abundance, with your help, can make a huge difference in the lives of the people of Jamaica!