Programs : UPLIFT PROGRAM

ICM’s Uplift Program is designed to” jumpstart” change for the poor – uplifting recipients with encouragement, education and opportunity.

Uplift is a two month program (with up to four additional months of follow-up) allowing ICM to economically effect positive change for the poor in hundreds of communities. In 2009/10, 6,400 households in 400 communities will participate in the Uplift Program.

The Uplift program is delivered to the poor in partnership with a slum or rural church serving the poor community. The program is extended to the 15 to 20 families determined to be the most vulnerable in the community. ICM targets families who live below the Philippine subsistence standard of Php27 (USD0.54) per day.

These families are invited to participate in the weekly education class, where they receive 2kg of rice at the conclusion of each week’s lessons.

Uplift Program components include:

Three part curriculum emphasizing Values, Health and Livelihood (VHL)

• Values – These lessons emphasize the importance of strong values and the need to participate in the change they want to see in their lives. Recipients are also provided opportunity to consider how Biblical principles relate to their personal lives.
• Health Care – This UN approved curriculum covers such topics as the importance of good hygiene practices, first aid, disease prevention and recognition and child care.
• Livelihood – This hands-on interactive training focuses on each recipient establishing a working container/backyard farming operation and organic soil production (vermin-culture) enterprise. Follow-up is provided to help ensure the success of each recipient’s farm.

The Uplift communities also receive an open air film showing (promoting good health practices and strong values), children’s Christian education training for at-risk children and dental clinics for the children.