In 2017, Mulana Faiz Vaid a board member with Third Pillar visited Savannah La Mar and, upon witnessing the pressing needs and poverty among the local Muslim population, was compelled to take action.

Mulana extended invitations to a select group of dedicated individuals, and together, they initiated a relief effort to address the socio-economic challenges faced by the community. The team, driven by a commitment to make a tangible impact, began by securing essential items such as food and clothing, offering immediate assistance to those in need.

This compassionate journey evolved into an annual initiative, with Mulana and the team traveling to Jamaica to provide support: to various Masaajids through donations, individuals and families with zakat and organizing and facilitating iftar (the meal when breaking the fast) in the blessed month of Ramadan.

These initial trips and projects are what laid the foundation and the establishment for Third Pillar.

First Steps

As the initiative gained momentum, the team expanded its scope to include the procurement of livestock (cows, chicken etc.) for the purpose of providing Maasajids with meat for iftaars Moreover, the team undertook the meticulous distribution of zakat across eight cities, contributing to the sustenance of over 105 families each year. Notably, they have financially supported the funding of Masjid-e-Rahma in Ocho Rios. 

Empowerment Projects

In recognition of the pressing needs and poverty, the team has embarked on an empowerment program aimed at selected individuals, to support their businesses in order to achieve self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on zakat.   In addition to their ongoing endeavors, the team has initiated a Maktab (quraan studies) program in Saint Elizabeth, specifically at Masjid-e-Taqwa. Through this educational initiative, Third Pillar is contributing to the intellectual and spiritual development of the local community, further solidifying their commitment to a holistic and sustainable impact.

This year we hope to support eight separate communities in Jamaica, please donate generously to these projects.