Livelihoods

JRS livelihoods programs in Colombia.

Improving livelihood opportunities is more than economic self-sufficiency. It is also about restoring dignity, confidence, and hope while promoting integration into the local community and strengthening social cohesion.

JRS recognizes the resilience and resourcefulness of refugees who want to be independent and self-reliant. We advocate for refugees’ right to work, facilitate access to employment markets and informal market economies, and assist in establishing agricultural projects.

JRS works in three main areas when supporting livelihoods. To support the skills required to maintain one’s livelihood, JRS provides language courses, CV development, and vocational training in various fields. JRS also helps refugees develop assets by distributing seeds and tools for agriculture, and helping them to get grants, loans, and other resources. One of the most essential services that JRS provides, is helping refugees rebuild networks, thereby facilitating their access to markets, economic and social capital. JRS does this through varied strategies: supporting social centers such as orphanages and schools, providing access to land, and facilitating connections to private companies.