Support Sidemen is a charitable initiative by the team at Samanvaya Resort that aims to uplift local families and communities in the impoverished region of Karangasem, Bali. In a place where Support Sidemen plays a vital role in providing essential support and assistance to those in need. Established during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, our organisation has been able to make a significant impact on the lives of the local village people who were not being supported by the tourism industry, which was heavily affected at the time.
The Sidemen Support Program has been successfully operating since October 16, 2021, and continues to thrive to this day. Over the past 21 months, we have made remarkable progress, collecting an impressive 15 tonnes of recyclable materials such as plastics, cans, cardboard, steel, and more, solely from the village itself. It’s worth mentioning that this total does not include the waste generated by our own organization.
Furthermore, we are proud to announce that we have reciprocated the community’s dedication by distributing 3 tonnes of rice as an exchange for their contributions. This has fostered a sense of collaboration and gratitude within the village, as we aim to provide not only a cleaner environment but also essential support to those in need. Most recently, we were privileged to supply two elderly individuals in the local village with wheelchairs. One of them had suffered a stroke two years ago, while the other had a debilitating back injury from a fall ten years ago. These wheelchairs have granted them newfound mobility, allowing them to reconnect with their families, soak in the sun, and truly appreciate life’s simple joys. We are humbled by the immense generosity of our guests, and we
remain committed to supporting the valley during its growth.
COVID-19 Support:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals in Sidemen and the surrounding areas lost their jobs, leaving them struggling to provide for themselves and their families. Recognising the dire situation, Samanvaya initiated the Support Sidemen scheme. Through this program, we raised funds through global fundraising efforts, reaching out to previous guests and supporters of our cause. With the generated funds, we were able to purchase essential items such as blankets, coffee, rice, and other staple ingredients, ensuring that families had access to basic necessities.
Plastic Exchange and Environmental Initiatives:
Samanvaya takes pride in the growth of the Support Sidemen scheme, which has expanded to incorporate sustainable practices and environmental initiatives. One of our notable projects is the Plastic Exchange program, which encourages recycling by exchanging plastic waste for rice.
Local community members engage in cleaning up the surrounding areas and bring their collected plastics to our designated exchange points. The weight of the plastic is then exchanged for rice, providing an incentive for responsible waste management. In addition to the Plastic Exchange, we also conduct education programs in local schools and villages to raise awareness about protecting the environment.
Supporting Education and Empowering Communities:
Support Sidemen recognises the importance of education and creating opportunities for a brighter future. We financially support local schools by providing necessary supplies that contribute to an enhanced learning environment for the students. Additionally, we offer education and training programs that equip individuals with the skills needed to secure better employment opportunities.
Our Commitment:
Support Sidemen is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of the people we support. As an organisation, we strive to ensure that 100% of the proceeds received from donations directly benefit the community. Our dedicated local team efficiently manages the projects, guaranteeing that the resources are allocated where they are most needed.
Support Sidemen stands as a beacon of hope for the local families and communities. Through our initiatives, we provide food, education, healthcare, and recycling projects to uplift the lives of those in need. We owe our success to the generosity of tourists who visit the area and graciously support our cause
through their donations. Together, we are working towards building a stronger and more sustainable future for the people of Sidemen.
You can reach out to us directly if you are able and willing to help in any way. We appreciate your continued support.
Support Sidemen
