What does Green really mean?

“Go Green!” “Be Green!” We have all heard this call to action many times. Community Supported Agriculture, “farm-to-table” freshness, sustainable agriculture, and certified organic are the newest popular themes in American culture. But in many parts of Africa and in Haiti, “green” agriculture is more than just a theme. It is the means by which families and communities are fighting poverty, surviving and making a living.

Women are responsible for 60-80 percent of food production in developing countries, in addition to the work they do raising children and managing their households. The work is far from easy. With limited resources, tools and seeds, not to mention sometimes poor soil quality, these strong, intelligent and determined women-farmers must fight everyday to feed their families and support their communities. While we may desire that “farm –to-table” freshness, the women-farmers we work with depend on it.

OIC International invests in the lives of these women to help families and communities rise out of poverty. Although there are no easy solutions to poverty, supporting the matriarch of the household creates an environment for the entire family to thrive. She not only teaches her children the skills she has learned, but also invests her earnings into her family’s and community’s well-being. You can help these women by making an investment in their future. OIC International has the tools and resources to teach women how to farm, and you can support OIC International with its programs in Africa and in Haiti.

Very Truly Yours,

Crispian Kirk

Global economists are all saying the same thing: Women-farmers are a key ingredient in ending poverty. By making a donation to OICI International, you, too, can be a key ingredient in ending poverty. Go to www.oici.org to help.