Goats Provide Real Hope

Zacapa, Guatemala – Climbing a steep grade of parched ground surrounded by cactus and thorn bushes, visitors can see a makeshift tin-covered building housing a family of six. While the children play, their father works among the goats that are tethered to the brush and happily eating. These goats are a part of an Operation Blessing sponsored project that provides real hope for the unemployed.

"Pedro" pushed back his cowboy hat and wearily scratched his head while looking down into the valley. The farmer's crop was sparse and many of Zacapa's population couldn't find work. It was common for he and other parents to provide much food for their numerous children. This father has five. Recently an opportunity knocked when Operation Blessing regional director Jose' offered him two goats as part of a micro enterprise project.

Extremely easy to raise, the livestock thrives off of the harsh terrain. Participants need only to provide them with water. As the goats reproduce, they become a source of food for the families (milk and meat) as well as income as the milk, meat or entire animals may be sold.

The goat project began in 1997 when nine goats were purchased for a little more than $300. They were given to one impoverished family. Goats can reproduce twice a year, so the family was tasked with giving six sets each to four other participating families. Thirty families including Pedros’ now have a total of more than two hundred animals! Operation Blessing continues to support this project by teaching how to care for the goats and provides basic veterinarian care as well as gives supplemental food and parasite medicine to the families. The project has also expanded to include ducks and rabbits. Since this type of work is easy to maintain, many single parents and mothers can stay at home with their children while still having a source of income and food.

Rich Danzeisen, Operation Blessing’s regional manager for Latin America, commented, "This project teaches valuable life skills, provides an instant source of food and income as well as allows participants to give back to their community. It can easily be replicated and provides for real needs and offers real hope!"

With a heart to help his poor countrymen, Operation Blessing Guatemala outreach center leader Julio Cesar de Leon has been active in OBI for more than 17 years. He has a network of nine regional outreach directors, many of which have been diligently working in their cities for 8 years. These dedicated men and women have positively impacted countless people through programs including Back-To-School, Bless-A-Child and Holiday of Hope.

Soon holiday programs will be underway. You can share this season's joy with individuals and families living in poverty around the world.