There are currently 896 million poor people in developing countries living on less than $1.90 a day*. The poorest are living in rural areas and over half are under 18 years of age.
We work with local people and empower them to become more prosperous.
* World Bank Poverty Overview, 2016
IMPROVING PROSPECTS
We don’t believe in handouts. That’s why we work closely with each community to empower them to improve their own living standards. We have developed and provided ongoing support to a wide range of income generation activities including fishing, marine agriculture, farming, ecotourism, artisan crafts and forestry. This has enabled many people to run their own businesses and secure a brighter future for their families.
One shining example of this comes from Tumaini Women’s Group in Kenya, run by the inspirational Mama Mercy.
Camps International constructed a much needed community centre for the group, which has enabled them to hold regular meetings, hire out the space for community functions, discuss topical matters and use their skills and knowledge to create sustainable small cottage industries. These include making jewellery, bags and keyrings, elephant dung paper products, aloe vera soap and traditional clothing. The centre has also become an essential training hub, enabling the women to gain new skills in art, computer literacy, tailoring and health and beauty.
TRUST HOUSES
We have built a number of Trust Houses that act as community hubs, offering employment to school leavers, child care services and vocational training. These centres enable young people to learn new skills and receive training in order to improve their employment prospects. Our Trust House in Kenya serves as a tailoring school and computer training centre.
ARTISAN CRAFTS
Most of our communities are highly skilled in producing arts and crafts. Since 2005 Camps International has supported a number of cottage industries by building market places, assisting in the production of jewellery and furniture making, and purchasing the final products.