International Journal of Research in Social Sciences

This study aimed to identify the effectiveness of the implementation of Anggur Merah, an empowerment program for poor communities in Boronubaen and Hauteas villages, Timor Tengah Utara district, Indonesia. One-to-one in-depth interviews were used to collect the data from the study participants recruited using purposive sampling technique. Thematic data analysis was guided by a qualitative data analysis framework. The results indicated that the implementation of Anggur Merah program was started with socialization sessions by the program implementers to introduce the program to the beneficiaries and establish communication with the beneficiaries prior to the program implementation. Understanding the rules and regulations related to the program was also done by the program implementers. Factors including the use of the budget for daily expenses, family needs and the needs of the beneficiaries’ children, early sale of cows and buying cows which were not in accordance with the standard, were the hindrances to the effectiveness of the implementation of the program. The findings of the current study indicate the needs for the improvement of the implementation of the program, including the regular support of the implementers, and the development of clear standard which can guide them to implement program.