Changing farming techniques, when everyone you have ever known farms “the old way,” is an incredibly challenging step. Because of this, ECHO encourages and equips farmers and development workers who can champion and demonstrate new ideas and walk alongside those they serve — passing along what they have learned over time.

Jason in Bolivia recently wrote, “Often times it feels that the agricultural information I share with people goes out into the wind and nothing comes of it... that is, until recently. At a conference for indigenous youth leaders I was approached by one of the attendees. ‘I wanted to thank you so much for that stick and seeds you gave me’ he said. I was confused at first, then realized he was referring to a few years ago I had given a talk on Creation Care and sustainable agriculture at another indigenous leaders conference. I had handed out Moringa seeds and Chaya cuttings to anyone who wanted them. He proceeded to share how these few sticks and seeds had greatly impacted his life. He grew the cutting and seeds and started feeding the leaves to his ducks, chickens, and pigs. ‘My animals are healthier and producing more babies and eggs than ever before! I’ve been sharing these plants with everyone in my town,’ he continued. This small change had reduced his dependency on expensive feed while producing more food and income to sustain his family and ministry.

 It was very exciting to hear how a stick and a few seeds were able to provide his family with more food security which in turn frees him to be more involved in his ministry.”

ECHO is proud to continue to serve Jason and be a small part of his family’s work in Bolivia.