Projects
October 3, 2018 South Africa: Community Development for Vulnerable Populations
[pie chart]43%Support Raised
[world map] Africa South Africa push-pin South Africa
Economic Development Economic Development
Health and Wellness Health and Wellness
• Economic Development • Health and Wellness • South Africa
GoalThe goal of this project is to train and equip people living in impoverished and vulnerable communities in South Africa to grow fruit trees and fruits, vegetables and raise poultry.
SummaryThis project seeks to raise $59,608 annually in order to train 10 leaders in sustainable agriculture that will reduce poverty and nutrition-related diseases in South Africa.
Description2020 was a year that showed the vulnerability of the global system and people realized the need for home food production in South Africa. Medical missionaries, Drs. Anita and Rick Gutierrez believe that now is the time to integrate the raising of poultry, gardening and fruit trees into one mission project that will create mini farms. Each farm will be managed and owned by one of the proven partners who has trained others. The leader must be capable of recruiting and training 10 students in sustainable agriculture. These partners have shown initiative in serving their community and have a commitment to share and distribute the word of God and run ongoing Bible study meetings to address community needs and fellowship. The mini farms will eventually have four domes, two incubators, two brooders (inside an existing structure), chicken wire fencing around a garden, flocks of chickens and quails housed in their own domes and free ranging where feasible, and a tree and vegetable nursery that will be the site for local sales of these items. The mini farm will also have a JoJo 4000L roof collection sanitary water system. Bethel Health Builders will gradually supply the equipment as the leaders continue to train others and demonstrate success. Mini-farms can be done on a quarter-acre sized lot. In an urban context, the quail can be raised in cages, the gardening done in large bags and trees planted around the flats or buildings wherever possible. Micro-farming activities suit people of all ages and physical abilities. Because of this, entire families can and will be involved with the intimate details of this project. This project is about the inherent values, needs and identity of the participants – each of whom are created in the image and likeness of God. On-going Discovery groups meet regularly to study the Bible, work to address the needs in the community and learn gardening and poultry skills. These projects have significant long-term impact that had demonstrated how they enhance family health and provide economic stability. The project total cost is $ 178,824 for 3 years, or $59608 per year.
Suggested GiftsA gift of $1,000 will provide one 16-foot covered Geodesic dome, one 4,000 liter Jojo water cistern, and one leaf & sediment strainer for a mini-farm. A gift of $5,000 will purchase three Juki TL-2010Q advanced semi-industrial and two Singer Overlocker sewing machines to make dome and brooder covers. A gift of $10,000 will establish a complete mini-farm including poultry, tree and garden components and infrastructure to create a living enterprise for a leader and family.
Prayer RequestsPray that this project will provide a better future in a country where 65% of young adults in their 20s are unemployed. Pray that this project will continue to rekindle pleasure and achievement as people participate in these timelessly fulfilling activities. Pray that raising fresh fruit and vegetables will create a more livable human habitat that will advance the nation of South Africa.
Managed ByGutierrez, Anita & Rick