Today I’m happy to announce the launch of a new project by the Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee. The Building Hope Project connects volunteer groups with farmworker families to build small chicken coops and greenhouses. These low-cost structures help families save money and supplement their nutrition.
A recent study in North Carolina found that nearly half of farmworker families don’t have enough food year-round. The good news is that with a modest commitment of volunteer time and money, your congregation can make all the difference. Having been to migrant labor camps and seen the conditions, I’m reminded of when Jesus said to his followers, “Whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me.”
Each building project requires a donation of $600 and requires about 12-15 volunteers for 2 partial work days (usually Saturday-Sunday). This project is great for youth groups, small groups, Sunday School classes, etc. We’ll be working on-site with the families to get these items constructed. It’s an opportunity not only to build a building, but also to meet farmworker families who are often isolated from churches.
The Council has worked for decades to improve the living and working conditions of our state’s many farmworkers. We know that seemingly small things like fresh eggs and nutritious vegetables can make a big difference in people’s lives. We look forward to partnering with you this spring.
Learn more and sign up at: www.ncfarmworkers.org/build
-Chris Liu-Beers, Program Associate
Is there any chance of getting the designs for the chicken coop & greenhouse? Making them available would help other people who might not be your target group but any person you can help…
-michael
Dear Michael,
This may be a possibility. Please contact Emily over at Design Corps for more info:
emily [at] designcorps.org