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.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
This microenterprise venture is one of many Operation Blessing projects touching lives around the world. You can be a part of improving the quality of life for impoverished communities by supporting these and other life-changing programs.
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