Farming in the Mayan highlands of Guatemala. Photo: PWS&D.
A Malawian farmer stands proudly with his crops and irrigation channel. Photo: PWS&D.
A woman feeds her goat in India. Photo: PWS&D.
Many families in developing countries rely on small-scale subsistence farming for survival. Soil degradation, prolonged drought and rising prices for commercial fertilizers make it difficult to increase crop production or purchase a variety of foods to balance their diets, leading to high rates of malnutrition. Working with partners in Afghanistan, Guatemala, India, Malawi, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Tanzania, and the Ukraine, PWS&D is helping farmers increase crop yields, improve their nutrition and raise livestock as an additional source of protein and income.
Agriculture
Through PWS&D’s agriculture and livestock programs, farmers are receiving seeds, tools and training in improved farming practices to increase and diversify their crop yields, as well as adapt to climate change. As water becomes increasingly scarce for many communities, farmers are learning how to protect and improve their soil quality, conserve water and use organic fertilizers that make the most of local resources. Farmers are establishing community “seed banks” by contributing a small portion of their seeds for use during times of need. Demonstration plots show farmers what results to expect from planting new varieties and utilizing new farming practices. Village “Recipe Days” are an opportunity to strengthen the social fabric of communities by teaching participants how to cook with the newly-introduced foods, share and eat together.
Livestock
Farmers are also receiving livestock and training in proper care, or access to small loans in order to purchase animals. Acquiring pigs, rabbits, chickens, goats and cattle helps increase household incomes as farmers are able to sell extra meat, milk and eggs at the market. Families use the cash to buy more animals and expand their business, access healthcare and send their children to school. Families also improve their nutrition by adding protein to their diets, and the manure the animals produce is valuable fertilizer for farmers’ crops.
Your Gifts Make a Difference!
Through your generous support of PWS&D, farmers are accessing agricultural training, small loans and livestock to improve their quality of life. Make a donation today!
