Changing the cycle of child hunger in Guatemala
Guatemala: Houweling’s Tomatoes Seeds of Tomorrow project taking roots
Guatemala is the fourth most malnourished country in the world, with 50% of children and up to 85% of indigenous Mayan population suffering in the country. (source www.unicef.org) Reflecting upon his return on how the trip affected him, Casey recounts, “What really struck me was the malnutrition. A large part of the population eats only beans, rice and corn tortillas, fruits and vegetables are rarely eaten.”
While the poor conditions of the people was evident, on the other side, he witnessed the incredible work and progress Les Peters (Founder of Impact Ministries) and his team have done in the region since arriving over 12 years ago. 8 schools provide education and a daily meal to the nearly 1,400 students. Former students, who have gone on to achieve higher education, returned to serve as teachers and principals, paying forward the opportunity given to them. “The smiles and joy on the faces of children who have so little, cemented my commitment to help Les and his team.” Says Houweling.
Upon returning to North America, Houweling had a vision as to how a greenhouse tomato farmer could help change the cycle of child hunger in Tactic. “As a farmer, I couldn’t get over that the climate of the region is well suited for growing, however the majority of crops in the ground were unproductive corn varieties. How could the life of the children in these schools improve, if they were receiving nutritious fruits and vegetables, growing children need?” While the region offers a great growing climate, daily afternoon showers can be intense and wash away freshly planted seeds. This is where the Seeds of Tomorrow Project was born. “What if we could provide a greenhouse safe from the elements to grow seedlings to such a size that they could withstand the rains in the fields?” wondered Casey.
Known within the Greenhouse industry as a visionary and a pioneer, Houweling immediately put the project in gear by committing $30,000 of the estimated $60,000 required to prepare the site for the greenhouse build. Kubo Sustainable Greenhouse Projects from Holland, agreed to donate the required structure. In working with their employees and valued supply partners, Kubo successfully secured over €180,000 in materials, donations and labor that will result in 2 full containers leaving Holland this month bound for Tactic.
To show your support, please visit www.Houwelings.com and make a secure, tax deductible donation. If you or your company would like to get involved, email [email protected]
For more information:
David Bell
Houweling’s Tomatoes
Tel: +1 604 398 5303
Mob: +1 604 315 3768
www.houwelings.com