Hope Notes Issue 20

Hurricane Matthew Update PAGE 22

Q&A with Ethiopian Families PAGE 3

Take the Hunger Quiz!

PAGE 19

STORIES OF HOPE FROM AROUND THE WORLD

FHCANADA.ORG

n i d l iBuBridgges PAGE: 9

1 ISSUE 20

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Around the Coffee Pot

Lynne's Will to Give

These Cows Are Electric!

Stronger Together

Teen Moms Thrive

Tadka Dal & Malewa

Building Bridges in Cambodia

Hunger Quiz

Airmail from the Heart

Reaching Beyond Mediocrity

Trashing Poverty

Hurricane Matthew Update

Q&A with Ethiopian families PAGE 3

Gift Guide cows are lighting up Uganda PAGE 6

Thanks to Piggy Banks & Chubby Cheeks PAGE 7

Finding our worth together PAGE 8

Sponsors share sweet letter PAGE 13

Upcycling helps kids learn and play PAGE 13

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Make future impact today PAGE 14

Empowering mothers, saving children PAGE 15

Recipes from Bangladesh & Uganda PAGE 18

Test your world hunger knowledge PAGE 19

Mark Wensley, FH Corporate Partner PAGE 20

How Canadians helped PAGE 22

FROM THE PRESIDENT Our world today feels increasingly divided — politically, racially, economically. We, however, are encouraged to report that in the midst of apparent rising hostilities, Food for the Hungry (FH) Canada is busy building bridges and connecting communities and individuals — both physically and relationally.

In this issue of Hope Notes you’ll sit down over a cup of coffee to connect with an Ethiopian family and get some useful advice — parent-to-parent.

You’ll discover how Gift Guide purchases cause your life to intersect with the lives of farmers in Uganda and mothers in Burundi. You’ll travel to Guatemala and have your own faith challenged and refined by the faith of those we consider the “poorest of the poor.”

I am excited for you to turn these pages and discover that when we build bridges together, we stand against the divisiveness of the world and proclaim God's truth that there are no outsiders — we are all included. And it is my hope that this, our 20th issue of Hope Notes, connects you personally to the lives and stories of those we walk alongside.

Thank you for including FH as part of your community; it’s a joy to walk together!

In faith, with hope,

Bernie Willock President & CEO, FH Canada

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ISSUE 20 Winter/Spring 2017 Food for the Hungry (FH) Canada’s seasonal publication, celebrating stories of hope from partnered communities around the world.

Content and editorial contributions from: Daniel Ashenafi, Eryn Austin Bergen, Nahid Bushra, Nathalie Fauveau, Karen Koster, Kesnel Joseph Larose, Catherine Moyer, Moses Mwalye, Kari Petzold, Mark Petzold, Michael Prins, Kenscoff Robin, Grant Saip, Bill Strom, Shelaine Strom, Mark Wensley, Bernie Willock, Carissa Youssef and other valued FH staff and friends.

Food for the Hungry (FH) Canada is a Christian, non-profit organization dedicated to facilitating sustainable, community development in order to bring about long-term change for those stuck in poverty.

Through project development, Child Sponsorship, emergency relief, and medical equipment distribution, FH Canada strives to relieve all forms of poverty - physical, spiritual, social, and personal.

Our Purpose: To end poverty, one community at a time.

Our Promise: To graduate communities from poverty in 10 years.

83.2% Building Sustainable Communities 13.3% Invested to generate income 3.5% Administration & running costs

As a Certified Member of the Canadian Council for Christian Charities, FH Canada meets the stringent standards set by the CCCC for accountability and organizational integrity.

CHARITABLE REGISTRATION NUMBER: 132152893RR0001

FH CANADA 1 - 31741 Peardonville Road, Abbotsford, BC V2T 1L2 T 604.853.4262 TF 1.800.667.0605 F 604.853.4332 info@fhcanada.org www.fhcanada.org blog.fhcanada.org

ISSUE 20

This "Ja bena" is a trad itional Ethiopia n coffee pot used in coffee ceremon ies.

WRITTEN BY: ERYN AUSTIN BERGEN

PHOTOS BY: ROBERT KENNEY

TARIKE TADESE, GRANDMOTHER Q: When you were a little girl, what did you do for fun?

G: I remember that I used to love playing football [soccer] with my friends.

Q: What was life like back then?

G: When I was a little girl, life was very different. Many things have changed over the years. Roads have been constructed, schools have been built, and water wells have been dug. During my lifetime, Sasiga has grown up from being just a rural village to a town administration. Women’s lives have changed, too. Women now have a better role in the family, take part in decision making, and participate in other institutions outside the family.

FHCANADA.ORG

Q: What is your involvement with FH? G: Now that FH Ethiopia is working in our area, they gather the community to mobilize people for different development activities. I get to participate in these gatherings by sharing my ideas about development.

Q: What is your role in your community and your family?

G: As the grandmother, giving input is my main responsibility.

I support my family with the wisdom I have gained through my life experience in this highly changing world. I encourage and advise the family, and take corrective measures when necessary.

My faith as an Orthodox Christian is important to me. It gives me guidance and is my protection.

Q: What advice would you give young parents?

G: Work hard and save for your children. And please, send your children to school.

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WAKTOLA FAMILY

Q: Do you both still farm?

Q: What was life like when you were growing up?

Tarike: I still work as a day labourer, but now I also take care of our home. I fetch water, collect firewood - things like that.

Mother, Tarike: I grew up in Oromia Sasiga District. My parents worked as day labourers on a state farm. All of my siblings (one brother and three sisters) are now farmers. As a young girl, I used to make a little money doing trade in my community. I did not go to school.

Father, Waktola: My family lived in the West Wolego Ghinibi area of Oromia, and my parents were farmers, but we also had cattle. As a young boy, I used to look after the cattle when I was not in school. I studied all the way up to Grade 10.

Tarike’s family practiced Orthodox Christianity, while my family was Seventh Day Adventist Christians.

Tarike: Both of us grew up going to church every Sunday, though.

Q: What does your faith mean to you?

Tarike: My faith is the cornerstone and foundation for my growth, as well as for my family. Everything in my life is built on this foundation.

Waktola: I agree; my faith is so important to me. It is my life discipline, my salvation, my redemption.

Q: How did you two meet?

Waktola: When I was a young man, I worked as a day labourer on a state farm - that’s where we first met.

Tarike: We fell in love at a young age; when we grew up a bit, we got married.

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Waktola: Our livelihood is based on agricultural income. I work on my own farm and also herd cattle. In addition, I participate with FH development activities. I contribute my ideas when a project is being planned, and volunteer my labour to help implement it. Our son became a Sponsored Child through FH in 2010.

Tarike: I also help with FH community development works by contributing locally available materials during construction projects, and donating my time and labour. FH actually sponsored my little brother in 2009. They also constructed water wells in 2010 where I now collect water.

Q: Do you have plans for the future?

Waktola: Yes! I have a plan to improve my farm both in production and productivity using different technologies that I have learned from FH. This will improve my family’s income.

Tarike: And I plan to start a small business in the local market.

Q: What does your community do for fun?

Tarike: We often visit together while making and drinking coffee.

Waktola: Neighbours get together on holidays to enjoy food and play together.

ISSUE 20

Q: What do you children do during the day while your parents are working?

Son, Yohannis: I go to school early every morning. When I come home, I help my mother fetch water and collect firewood. I like playing soccer and volleyball with the other students, but soccer is my favourite game.

Daughter, Ruth: I go to school, too. I like getting to see my friends there, and playing volleyball during recess. I also like reading at home, and I help fetch water.

TOLESA

Q: Is there anything you wish was different about your school?

Q: What advice can you give mothers in Canada?

Ruth: I just want to see my school be the best school in the district.

A: Life has a lot of lessons, a lot of ups and downs. Hold onto the good ones, as well as the hard ones, as lessons for the future. Also, love your family and encourage them.

Yohannis: I wish that girls got more support at school.

As mothers and sisters, they will be the most responsible citizens of the future.

Q: As parents, what do you hope for your children’s futures?

Waktola & Tarike: We hope they will succeed in their studies and become important people by being doctors or teachers - whatever will make them successful.

Q: And what do you kids want to do when you grow up?

Yohannis: I want to work as a teacher, or in a government job.

Ruth: I want to be a teacher!

ROBE

Q: What brings you each personal joy?

Q: What is your life like as a boy growing up in Ethiopia?

Tarike: Going to church and taking care of my children gives me joy.

A: I help out at home by cooking, cleaning the house, and fetching water. I like going to school because I enjoy learning and usually score high marks. I want to see my school have very unique and talented students who can represent the nation.

I like being a big brother, and taking care of my sisters and brothers. When I grow up, I want to be a doctor.

Waktola: Spending time with my family brings me joy.

Q: What advice would you give men and women in Canada about how to be good mothers and fathers?

Tarike: I love being a mother in Sasiga because I get to care not only for my own children, but also look out for my neighbours’ kids. I would advise mothers in Canada to take more time with their children, as much as possible. Women are key people for the development of the family and the nation.

Waktola: It’s a blessing to be able to have children and to be able to send them to school. In Ethiopia, fathers are mostly the bread winners of the family. I'm also responsible to be a role model in life, word, deed. I enjoy getting to serve my children and my wife this way. I encourage fathers in Canada to meet their family’s needs as Christ shoulders the world.

EBISE Q: What do you want to do when you grow up?

A: I want to complete my college studies and become an accountant.

FHCANADA.ORG

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See your GIFT GUIDE impact!

These cows are electric!

A farmer group receives their new dairy cows.

Marare & Nashisa, Uganda DAIRY COW

The dairy cow program in Uganda is thriving!

Last year, before distributing new dairy cows, FH trained 41 recipient farmer groups on how best to care for their “new family member”. Each caretaker was also provided with supplies to build a clean and safe cow stable.

We are proud to report that, in spite of facing significant challenges including a prolonged drought and an outbreak of East Coast fever resulting in some animal deaths, the 89 farmer groups (total) in Marare and Nashisa overcame and continue to experience success.

On average, the farmers get 8-10 litres of milk per day, improving family nutrition and providing enough milk to sell for profit. Families are healthier and incomes are going up! Farmers also use the cow manure as organic fertilizer.

Betty Katooko, a dairy farmer in the area, shares, “Gone are the days when I used to fold my hands in lamentation of my poor state. I now know the secret of making money. I use my hands to make money through livestock keeping. From this cow, I plan to buy some land and build a small house. I will keep this cow like I care for my own body and children.”

And these farmers are intent on spreading the love this year 72 calves were passed on from original cow recipients to the next families in line. Your gifts just keep multiplying!

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Betty Katooko, proud Ugandan dairy farmer.

...this year 72 calves were passed on from original cow recipients to the next families in line. Your gifts just keep multiplying!

And here’s something really exciting — in addition to milk and fertilizer, the cows are making electricity.

A total of 24 biogas units in Marare and Nashisa are providing an environmentally friendly alternative to wood-burning cook stoves. Using biogas from cow manure saves trees, creates a smoke free environment in homes, generates cheaper lighting, and makes cooking easier and faster (and who doesn’t love that?).

ISSUE 20

See your " GIFT GUIDE impact!

"Let Us Join Our Hearts Together" Kayanza, Burundi PIGGY BANK Cecile proudly sells household goods from her burgeoning store.

Because Canadians gave Gift Guide Piggy Banks, this teenage mom has a future.

Cecile was only in Grade 8 when she gave birth to her son; she dropped out of school. It was a big struggle to raise him alone.

But then someone gave a Gift Guide Piggy Bank that funds Savings and Loans Groups, and Cecile’s life began to change.

She joined a savings group called Duhuzimitima, which means, “Let us join our hearts together.”

“At the end of the first cycle, I saved BIF225,000 ($180 CAD).

This was my first time to get this much money! It ignited dreams in me. My mind was filled with so many things I could buy or do.

Finally, I decided to equip my home with essential items that I badly needed, but also save BIF100,000 ($80 CAD) to start a

See your GIFT GUIDE impact!

“Today, my business is growing!”

small business. I asked my savings group for a loan to increase my capital. Today, my business is growing! I sell sugar, flour, beans, soft drinks, nuts, copybooks, pens, and other items needed in my community.

Before this, I was depressed, hopeless, and my family said that I am a failure after disappointing them with the unexpected pregnancy.

Now they think differently of me. Besides my son, I support my parents a lot and I feel proud of myself!”

Cecile now volunteers with FH. She goes around in the community to promote, organize, and train new savings groups.

Because you joined your heart with Cecile through your gift, she now has a future.

The most pinch-worthy gift of all!

Via Hortencia II, Guatemala CHUBBY CHEEKS

“Children cannot defend themselves,” Magdalena explains, “especially all the babies.”

Guatemalan babies benefit from Chubby Cheeks (as you can see!).

Magdalena Lòpez Sajic is a 28-year-old mother of four who volunteers with the Growth Promotion and Monitoring team in Villa Hortencia II, a small Guatemalan community of just 132 families. This team is directly supported by Chubby Cheeks (arguably the most adorable Gift Guide item - ever!).

mothers. All the information I have learned also helps me take care of my four daughters. Now I can be a good example to others and change the situation of children in our community.”

“My desire is to change the mindset around supporting our children,” Magdalena explains. “As a volunteer, I work with a team of other mothers from the community to help measure the height and weight of children, and give advice to many new

Magdalena’s leadership and passion is inspiring more people to improve the nutrition of children. With your help, Magdalena’s dream of seeing children grow up healthy and strong is coming true.

SEE THE GIFT GUIDE ONLINE AT FHCANADA.ORG/GIFTS FHCANADA.ORG

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Trapeang Prasat community members waited to joyfully greet visiting Canadian partners.

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ISSUE 20

BUILDING BRIDGES Finding our worth together

WRITTEN BY: SHELAINE STROM “I’M TIRED OF MY PEOPLE DROWNING.” Torrents of warm rain pelted our shoulders as we dashed from the van to Food for the Hungry’s (FH) office in Trapeang Prasat.

We welcomed the shelter of the open-air meeting room as we watched the monsoon put on a show.

Linly, the FH Country Director and guide for our week-long trip to Cambodia, phoned a staff member to ask about the weather’s affect on our plans.

“It’s bad, but you must come,” Bong Phanna, Program Officer for Trapeang Prasat District, insisted. “These people have been waiting for you and the Canadians to come!” Linly debated our safety travelling on clay-mud roads to the community in such harsh precipitation, but Bong Phanna countered, “No, you must come!”

And with that, the rain stopped. So off we went.

But the village road proved to be the tropical version of a skating rink. Even slight acceleration resulted in the van sliding precariously close to the ditch. Our driver put the vehicle in park and looked to us for direction.

“How far is it? Can we walk?” we asked our leader.

“It’s maybe a mile. But if we walk, you better pick up a stick to knock the clay off your shoes or your feet will get too heavy.”

We didn’t need coaxing, and she wasn’t kidding. Each step added pounds to our sandals as we slogged along.

“The staff are coming!” shouted Linly.

FHCANADA.ORG

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Shelaine Strom holds on for dear life!

Smiles all around as introductions are made.

Three motos (the common term for small motorcycles) pulled up and drivers motioned us to hop on. I got to be first and, as ladylike as possible in my full-length skirt, straddled the seat behind my helmeted knight. (Sitting side-saddle with clog-feet — while culturally appropriate — didn’t seem wise.)

“I’m tired of my people drowning.”

We dodged puddles and potholes, skidding periodically, and all too soon the adventure ended. I climbed off and stood before 75 smiling, curious people. My teammates arrived and we began following the crowd toward the first bridge.

“What are bridges made of?”

Bong Phanna responded, asking the chief what he needed, to which he replied, “Bridges. We need bridges but we have no money. We don’t even have enough food to eat.”

“Wood,” the chief replied.

Bong Phanna pointed to the surrounding hardwood trees.

The story unfolded.

When Food for the Hungry staff began walking with this community, the village leader shared his heart with them, “If you will partner with us, we will do everything for you to get to our village.” They built the clay road so staff could get into the community.

The chief had described how, when rainy season hits, the road became impassable as three gullies turned to rushing rivers, cutting their village off from the world. Women gave birth on river’s edge and too many died of infection because they couldn’t get to a doctor. Some children had died trying to cross to get to school.

Now, months later, there we stood, the first Canandians to see the fruit of the villagers’ labour. The community had pulled together and worked under the direction of a FH engineer.

Locals sawed and hammered and fashioned three exquisite foot bridges to span the angry, muddy waters.

We were told upon arriving in Cambodia not to be surprised if our smiles went unreturned by people — their history is painful and trust comes slowly. This village didn’t get that memo. At the first bridge women laughed, children ran back and forth, and men motioned us onto the next bridge. And then onto the third.

Welcome Trapeang Prasat!

In 2016, FH Canada partnered with a cluster of 14 farming communities, home to 3,509 families in northern Cambodia. In recovery from the Khmer Rouge era, these resilient communities face serious challenges - 60% drink untreated water, most children do not get an education beyond primary school, and the nearest hospital is 45km away.

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The community's new bridge is much more than a vital connection over high waters; it's a sturdy reminder of what can be accomplished together.

But they are determined to build a new future! We are excited to see the changes that will happen during the next 10 years of walking together.

ISSUE 20

I can’t recall another time I felt so welcomed into the heart of genuine rejoicing over something incredible accomplished together. We had no spoken language in common but the dancing, singing, and clapping needed no translation.

We ended our time by blessing the structures and its builders, and Bong Phanna shared more of the story.

This community, once fragmented by the fear, mistrust, and pain leftover from the Khmer Rouge era, had met on the bridge early that morning to make and share rice together awaiting our arrival. Eventually they ate lunch there as well. So much excitement and anticipation.

And since that communal effort, people are looking out for each other. They share in care for the sick and aging. They are, in the truest sense, a community.

When we arrived, the chief confided in Bong Phanna. “When the rains came today, we lost hope that the Canadians would come. We thought, ‘We are not worth it for them to come.’

We could not believe our eyes when we saw the white people arrive.”

DID YOU KNOW? The default mode of transportation for tourists is the tuk-tuk, essentially a motorized, two-wheel carriage pulled by a motorbike.

Traditionally, birthdays are not celebrated. Older people might not even know their birthday.

It’s considered disrespectful to let your feet or soles point at people, so the feet must be tucked in when sitting.

Tarantula kebabs are a popular delicacy.

Not worth it.

Thank God we went. Perhaps those bridge builders were blessed by our visit, and I pray they grow in understanding of their intrinsic value as created in the image of God. But I also hope they can, in some small way, know the lasting impact their pure joy had on us.

WATCH the video of these women giving a joyful, welcoming dance!

FHCANADA.ORG/DANCE

WANT TO SEE FIRSTHAND WHAT ENDING POVERTY LOOKS LIKE? Are you a Child Sponsor dreaming of visiting your sponsored children, or a business owner considering partnership, or a church member walking alongside a developing community? Isn’t it time you see for yourself who and what you’re supporting?

WeFHCANADA.ORG invite you to visit the communities you’re cheering for! Come see how we do what we say we do.

Visiting your partnered community is a powerful experience that will forge unforgettable bonds with the families you encounter.

Whether you hug your sponsored child, attend a local church service, or join in on a work project, you will see firsthand the transformation taking place as they move towards sustainability.

Chat with us.

partnerships@fhcanada.org fhcanada.org/partnerships

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Ending Poverty Together: IT TAKES MANY HELPING HANDS TO GET FROM STUCK TO THRIVING Helping people realize their dreams. That’s ultimately what it means to partner with families, leaders, and churches in developing communities. Every act of generosity — with its own unique impact — works together to help create a better future.

Emergency relief covers a family’s basic necessities so they can think about the future. Child Sponsors help children go to school while their parents discover new ways to generate income. Gift Guide donors equip a community with livestock, work tools, clean water, and skills training. Canadian church and business partners offer sustained encouragement and longevity.

The generosity of relationship reaches the deepest. Team visits show communities that they are worth the effort and expense a trip requires. And a single letter from a Child Sponsor making a child feel cherished and believed in can alter the course of their entire life.

It takes people like you with willing, helping hands to make it all happen. Together, we can end poverty.

N LISopTleE get stulicstke. n

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PARTNER Then FH invites YOU to help them realize their dreams.

Child Sponsor

Gift Guide Donor

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ISSUE 20

Airmail

“When we receive a letter like this one from Tom, we realize the incredible value our sponsorship has.

As each new letter arrives we see the e n Ra i nc transformation, education, ss y, C hild Sponsor and care that the programs supplied by FH bring to the child, his family, and their community at large. We thank God for the opportunity to have this unique connection that cannot be found in any other way.”

n Ly

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Tom

From the Heart

Sponsor a child today:

FHCANADA.ORG/CHILD Poverty makes life hard, but it can also drive innovation.

Agricultural facilitators and teachers are using their creative thinking-caps and transforming common trash into highly useful objects.

It just goes to show that one person’s garbage is another’s opportunity!

M A K E YO U R O W N

U P CYC L E D PL ASTIC PL AN TER

Cut open one side of a washed out plastic bottle. Fill with dirt, plant and water a seed or seedling, and watch it grow!

Prepare multiple bottles to create a hanging garden. Poke small holes into the bottom and lid, then run string through to each bottle and hang.

Re ar cycl in e org ed w pr Cam ani ate ve opog bod zed r bo up ggie ate ia to by f ttles wa the see cro he arme rs us ter jugs dlin ps a lp fro ed a is mo on gs. B nd m s it re a s y l on l i e p gen effic ope ning lan tly ien , t t tric tly o t kle he s ne xt .

m. ble s o r id p d k ir No ll? craze w the a a s b o lNo tbal di sh pirit a ad of a s o Fo urun ful s ed w ome gh in B ource unch y bec enou l res htly b uick ough rous q t g , i c me ngs! l t al sti i nu pla cer b tand ound c s p o h nd s wit to ses a s a p

TRASHING POVERTY

HOW UPCYCLING IS HELPING KIDS LEARN & PLAY Children learn about growing plants by rigging up homemade hanging baskets. Water stored in an inverted bottle sprinkles onto seeds below, regulating moisture and conserving soil and space.

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Lynne's Will To Give INTERVIEW WITH: LYNNE WESTWOOD-SMITH WRITTEN BY: CARISSA YOUSSEF

"I have 10 grandchildren and I'm in the process of redoing my will; FH is definitely in the mix! I'll be moving FH out of my insurance policy and into my will."

For well over a decade, Lynne Westwood-Smith has invested into ending poverty through FH in a variety of ways, including Child Sponsorship and serving on the FH board. When we asked why she chose to consider an estate gift Lynne shared her commitment to making a long-term impact.

“Giving of my time and resources is a part of how I live out my life of faith, it’s always personal and this way is particularly personal."

“My church entered into a partnering relationship with the community of Bufukhula, Uganda and in 2007 I was able to meet my sponsored child. I’ll never forget that first trip with FH; it was an incredible experience. When I saw first-hand how

WHY CREATE A PLAN? •

Promote family harmony and avoid family conflict over assets.

•

Billions of dollars are needlessly being transferred to the government through capital gain and income taxes.

•

Current estate documents often overlook the tax advantages of charitable giving.

•

Integrate your worldview and values into your Will.

my little bit of money was impacting my sponsored child’s family, I was deeply moved. I decided I want to be part of future impact, as well, by providing for future child sponsorships through my will.

“Giving of my time and resources is a part of how I live out my life of faith; it’s always personal and this way is particularly personal.”

For That Peace Of Mind

Planning or updating your Will is probably on your To-Do list — maybe somewhere toward the bottom?

Food for the Hungry has partnered with Advisors with Purpose to help you finally put your mind at ease! Their trained estate specialists will meet with you by phone, listen to your unique situation, provide you with information, and help you create a fully personalized plan. This plan can then be easily implemented into a Will by your lawyers and advisors.

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Contact them today to speak to an estate specialist: 1.866.336.3315 plan@advisorswithpurpose.ca

Because of FH’s partnership with them, this service is free and confidential, and they will never sell you any product.

Estate planning is for everyone regardless of whether you have a lot or a little. The benefits go beyond your family to the charities and people near to your heart.

ISSUE 20

“Before FH [came] we didn’t have a place to learn, and now we gather every Thursday and have someone to teach us. We cannot just keep the training to ourselves, but we must go out and share it with other mothers. There is no stress now for mothers.”

- Vertus Marie Yoleine, Leader Mother

STRONGER TOGETHER Empowering mothers, saving children INTERVIEW WITH: CARISSA YOUSSEF WRITTEN BY: ERYN AUSTIN BERGEN

ALONE WE ARE VULNERABLE, HELPLESS, AFRAID. TOGETHER WE ARE STRONG, EQUIPPED, AND CONFIDENT. The moment a woman becomes a mother, her entire orientation shifts. Suddenly, she is responsible for the sustaining of another human life. It is a sacred trust, an ancient practice, an unparalleled challenge.

Imagine the fear that could so easily overwhelm if you found yourself pregnant only to realize that you had no idea how to

FHCANADA.ORG

FH Health Specialist, Thamarre Jean Pierre, teaches weekly health lessons to a Leader Mother Group in Cachiman, Haiti.

take care of your baby. Imagine there is no library full of baby books, no partner to help you weather these unchartered waters.

Thousands of women in Haiti daily face this frightening scenario. That’s why Food for the Hungry (FH) is training up Leader Mothers in the community of Cachiman. These bold women are changing the culture of isolation, fear, and powerlessness, into a culture of solidarity, confidence, and knowledge.

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Cascade Group meeting, Cachiman, Haiti.

FH Canada Director of Philanthropy, Carissa Youssef, visited a group of Leader Mothers in 2016. After her return from Haiti, we sat down with her to find out just what kind of impact these women are having.

“When I was in Haiti, it struck me how fortunate we are in Canada to have access to all the health information we need.

The moment a woman even considers getting pregnant, everyone is there to give her advice — doctors, nurses, friends, our mothers, even Google — we get so much advice it can be a little overwhelming! But in many communities, best practices on child-raising simply aren’t passed down, which results in real fear for a lot of these young women.

“So many moms don't have the education for how to care for their baby during pregnancy and those early years. It’s natural to have kids, but isn’t actually natural to know how to raise kids, no matter how much you love them.”

Leader Mothers invite other moms and neighbours to regular Cascade Group meetings to share health lessons, values lessons, and mothering advice.

Many mothers in Haiti are not aware of what causes their children’s illnesses, or equipped to help them when they get sick. For example, it’s common in Haiti for family livestock to come into the home, causing unsanitary conditions for small children. Many mothers also don’t know that it’s best for their baby to only have breastmilk until six months, leading to malnutrition in young children.

to work through a flip chart featuring visuals that teach that week’s health lesson. The practical advice she shares is complemented with emotional, social, and spiritual applications. Cascade groups seek to nurture every part of a woman’s health, not just her physical needs. “Leader Mothers make a lonely mom feel and know and have faith that SHE is the best mom for her children, that God has put her there for her kids.” Carissa speaks from her heart, “As a mom, myself, I can see how any mother needs to hear and believe that.”

The role of FH staff and Leader Mothers is to walk alongside these overwhelmed moms, with all the odds stacked against them, and to equip them to be the best mothers they can be.

That becomes especially meaningful when you consider the array of women who attend the meetings — teens, grandmas, pretty much all female neighbours. “I asked why there were so many of the community’s teens at the meeting and found out that most of them were already mothers. Evidently, it’s very common for girls to become mothers before they’re married, and long before they finish school.”

HOW CASCADE GROUPS WORK Once a week, a FH staff Health Specialist teaches a health lesson to a group of Leader Mothers.

Leader Mothers tackle practices like these, and many others, in Cascade Group meetings. They take the inexperience, the no-fault ignorance of other moms and transform it into lifesaving knowledge.

Each Leader Mother has a group of women (family members, neighbours, friends) with whom she meets once a week to convey the new lesson.

Every Thursday, the local FH Health Specialist, Thamarre Jean Pierre, visits the Leader Mother group in Cachiman

Leader Mothers follow-up with their group members by conducting individual home visits to answer questions, encourage positive change, and point out potential health hazards in the home.

Once they have completed a series of health lessons taught by a Leader Mother, that group of women is ready to step up and become Leader Mothers themselves.

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ISSUE 20

This poses a significant challenge to FH staff and Leader Mothers in the community. How do they gain community support to change a normalized practice that causes so much damage to young women? While practical family planning is taught in the groups, at the heart of these unplanned pregnancies is a skewed values system. “Ultimately, it’s not stand alone health lessons that change behaviour, but a spiritual transformation that comes through relationship,” Carissa passionately interjects. “Girls have to know they deserve to finish school and have healthy families because they have intrinsic value from God."

“Ultimately, it’s not stand alone health lessons that change behaviour, but a spiritual transformation."

Cascade groups gather weekly to learn about health, share struggles, and encourage each other.

To get their messages across to such a diverse group of women, Leader Mothers are quite creative. In addition to colour flip charts, the women teach through song, role playing, and skits. “I thoroughly enjoyed the heart they put into it! Their love for their jobs and their community was definitely evident.” In addition, the women often wear T-shirts that advertise health tips on the back — they’re serious about these messages getting out!

Equipped with practical knowledge that has the power to prevent illnesses, curb infant mortality, and increase child growth, these Leader Mothers are now experts in their community. “They have a role with meaning and honour, and they take so much pride in being community leaders.”

“It was their commitment to each other that impressed me most,” Carissa reflects. “It’s one thing to say you support mothers, it’s entirely another to actually walk with a young mother, week after week, offering love and support in spite of her situation. That’s genuinely transformative.”

THE "CASCADE" EFFECT

Carissa visits with sponsored child, Kattie.

WHAT CASCADE GROUPS IMPACT FH

FH field staff

• Childcare for 0-6 months.

• Feeding practices, including breastfeeding & supplementary feeding.

Leader Mothers

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Moms in the community

FHCANADA.ORG

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Balanced diet for the mother.

•

Family planning.

•

When to take your child to a doctor.

•

The importance of education for children.

• Worldview.

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RECIPES from

Bangladesh & Uganda TADKA DAL

(Bangladeshi Seasoned Lentil Soup) Tadka Dal is a staple dish served in villages all across the country of Bangladesh. Many mothers prepare a version of this as a daily meal for their families.

Serves 4.

INGREDIENTS: Dal

DIRECTIONS: Dal

1 cup red lentils 2 onions 2 tbsp oil ½ tbsp garlic ½ tsp red chili powder ½ tsp turmeric ½ tsp coriander 4 Tejpatta leaves (or bay leaves) 6 cups water Salt to taste

Wash lentils in cold water.

Using a deep sauce pan add oil, lentils, sliced onions, garlic, salt, chili powder, turmeric, and coriander. Fry for 10 mins until onions lightly brown. Add water and bay leaves. Bring to boil.

Simmer on low for 30-40mins until lentils are tender.

INGREDIENTS: Tadka 1 tsp oil 2 garlic cloves (minced) 3 green chilis (diced) 1 tsp cumin Mothers and caretakers in communities are learning new and better ways to feed their families. FH often hosts workshops on health and nutrition, followed by cooking demonstrations or classes, and a meal together!

DIRECTIONS: Tadka Add to a small sauce pan oil, garlic, and onion until onions lightly brown. Then add to Dal soup.

Dice green chilies and add to Dal soup (only if you like it extra spicy!). Add cumin.

Simmer for 5 mins. Serve as a soup or as a sauce over rice.

MALEWA

(Ugandan Bamboo Shoot Soup) Ugandans are resourceful people. And they love their “ground-nut sauce”! Here’s a creative way families in eastern Uganda make a tasty meal out of what they have.

Serves 5.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

10 cups water 3 sticks raw bamboo OR 3 cans bamboo shoots 2 tsp soda ash (or *baking soda) 1 cube beef bouillon 1 onion, sliced ¾ cup all-natural peanut butter

If using raw bamboo shoots: rinse shoots and cut into slices. Add shoots and *soda ash to water and boil until shoots are soft. OR use canned bamboo shoots, no *soda ash.

Add bouillon, onions, and peanut butter. Simmer for 10 mins. Add salt to taste.

Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, rice, or flatbread.

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ISSUE 20

Start!

QUIZ: Test your world hunger knowledge!

1. What is the number one 2. Is there a food shortage in the world? risk to health worldwide? a. AIDS b. Cancer c. Hunger d. Malaria

3. How many children

under the age of five die each year because of poor nutrition? a. 600,000 b. 1 million c. 3.1 million d. 5 million

a. Yes! Currently, the world only produces enough food for about 86% of the population to be sufficiently nourished. b. No! There is enough food in the world today for everyone to have the nourishment necessary for a healthy and productive life.

4. What Latin American country has the highest incidence of chronic malnutrition, with 49% of children affected? a. Guatemala b. Peru c. Guayana d. Brazil

6. Deficiency in which mineral causes

tiredness and lethargy, impedes cognitive development, and affects 40%-60% of children aged 6-24 months in developing countries? a. Iodine b. Iron c. Zinc d. Magnesium

9. If women farmers had the same

access to education and resources as men, the number of hungry in the world could be reduced by up to a. 900,000 b. 500 million c. 75 million d. 150 million

5. What is the most critical

developmental period for a child’s nutrition? a. From birth to age five b. Whenever a child starts eating solids c. From conception to age two d. From birth to age two

7. How many of the world’s 8. What continent children are stunted? a. One in ten b. One in four c. One in seventeen d. One in one hundred

has the most hungry people? a. Africa b. South America c. Asia d. Europe

10. Deficiency in which vitamin weakens the

immune systems of 140 million preschool children worldwide and more than seven million pregnant women, and is a leading cause of child blindness across developing countries? a. Vitamin B b. Vitamin D c. Vitamin C d. Vitamin A

Finish!

Join FH in reversing these statistics by sending nutrient packed, dried soup mix to Africa and Latin America.

Let’s end malnutrition together!

FHCANADA.ORG/SOUP 19

FHCANADA.ORG *Source: www.wfp.org/hunger

ANSWERS: 1. C, 2. B, 3. C, 4. A, 5. C, 6. B, 7. B, 8. C, 9. D, 10. D

REACHING BEYOND MEDIOCRITY An interview with Mark Wensley, FH Corporate Partner Mark and Cori meeting partnered families in Guatemala.

Mark Wensley is the owner and CEO of Highridge Homes and 3% Realty in Vernon, British Columbia. In 2016, Mark’s businesses entered into a corporate partnership with Food for the Hungry (FH) Canada to walk with Acul, Guatemala — a rural community that is just beginning their development journey. In November, he and his wife Cori, along with one of their administrative staff, visited Acul and two other FH communities.

Q: Why did you decide to begin a corporate partnership with FH to walk with Acul, Guatemala?

M: My wife and I have always believed giving is an integral part of our obedience to Christ. But, lately, we both sensed the Lord challenging us to do more than just write a cheque. Cori and I wanted to be much more involved in the relationship aspect and not just the arm’s length financial support.

Having wealth like we do in Canada and being successful in business is both a blessing and a responsibility. My wife often reminds me “much will be required from whom much is given, for their responsibility is greater.” We’ve been blessed, not just to have nice things, but so that we can bless others.

Ultimately, the reason Cori and I want to “do better” is because that will bring us joy. People who go through life in mediocrity are never happy.

Q: What does the partnership mean to you?

M: It’s a dream come true, really. This has given me new vision and renewed purpose. It’s made our work more about being kingdom builders rather than just money venturers. When we signed the 10-year commitment in front of the leaders of Acul I was overwhelmed by the privilege and the responsibility of coming alongside these wonderful people.

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WRITTEN BY: ERYN AUSTIN BERGEN PHOTOS BY: MARK WENSLEY Q: In what ways do you see your corporate culture changing as a result of the partnership?

M: We’ve committed a minimum annual amount toward our community for the next 10 years. That’s the baseline. On top of that, our real estate agents give a portion of their commission toward sponsoring five kids in Acul. One of our administrators was so touched by Bernie’s stories of transformation that she took it on herself to create a storyboard of Acul in the front foyer that everyone sees when they walk through the door.

Our other administrator sponsored a child after Bernie’s first presentation…she couldn’t wait!

We’re already planning our next corporate trip for spring 2018!

Q: What surprised you about your first trip to Guatemala in November?

M: The people! Here they are, without even running water, and they’re smiling with such joy! I didn’t see a single person begging; no one asked us for anything. These are hardworking, honourable, dignified people saying, “Thank you for being willing to come alongside us, but this is our work.” All they need is a bit of outside support. We’re not doing this for those ‘poor people down in Guatemala’; we’re doing this because they’re amazingly rich in their culture and community.

The other thing that struck me was how we’re so broken in our community life here in Canada with our individualistic attitudes.

In our affluence, we don’t lean on each other or on God for our daily needs. It’s our form of profound poverty.

"People who go through life in mediocrity are never happy."

ISSUE 20

The Acul Development Commitee chairperson, FH Canada President Bernie, and Mark launch their partnership with a covenant signing.

Overlooking Acul, nestled in the heart of the mountains.

Q: What makes you confident that your investment is being put to good use?

Q: Would you recommend other businesses to embrace the corporate partnership model with FH?

M: FH is committed to a long-term relationship with these families. It’s “kids first”, but through the equipping of the entire community. The work being done is really “owned” by the communities and local FH staff.

M: I would enthusiastically encourage others to join in!

Here’s an example of what I mean. On our visit I saw what I thought was an immediate need that we could fix. I told the FH staff member in charge that we would do whatever it takes to fix the problem. But she didn’t say thank you, or smile, or give me a big hug and say “You’re amazing.” She just looked at me thoughtfully and said, “You’ll have to leave that with me.” And I thought, “Wow, you’re a strong lady.” I didn’t feel discouraged at all; I felt confident that they had a plan and knew what they were doing. It’s not about handouts, it’s not about us, it’s about what’s best for the community.

We love FH because we get to participate. It’s an honour to go and have relationship with the people of the community.

Through that, we’re also being changed by their impact on our attitudes and faith.

I would encourage business owners to allow God to stretch and bring you into the adventure he’s called us all to be a part of.

Rather than just writing a cheque, lean into the relationship aspect of giving — go into other cultures and love them.

It’s not always going to be comfortable, but it’s always going to be worth the effort!

We visited three different FH communities in very distinct stages of development. Our village of Acul is just starting their development journey while others were nearing their 10-year ‘graduation’, so we caught a glimpse of where Acul is headed, that the future they dream of can become a tangible reality.

Significant accomplishments we witnessed in the graduating communities were a new sewage treatment facility, women who started their own savings group and now loan money to each other for business investments, and excited moms weighing their babies, learning about nutrition, and being encouraged to raise healthy kids.

3% Realty staff pose with their partnership storyboard.

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP Mutual Transformation for Local & Global Success Options for you: An online presence with FH Team trip coordination Specialized events Partnership impact reports Coaching

FHCANADA.ORG

Benefits for the developing community: Relational support Economic investment Information sharing fhcanada.org/partner partnerships@fhcanada.org

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HURRICANE MATTHEW UPDATE, HAITI FH Canada supporters gave $48,200 in just a few short weeks!

HOW YOU HELPED! On October 4th, Hurricane Matthew hit Haiti with the crushing force of a category 4 storm.

Reports say it was the worst in a decade. The heavy rain and wind produced deadly flooding and mudslides, and caused catastrophic damage to houses, schools, businesses, infrastructure, crops, and water and sanitation systems.

According to the UNOCHA*, an estimated 1.4 million people — that’s 13% of the entire country — required humanitarian assistance including hundreds of thousands of children.

Local FH staff responded to the crisis immediately by checking in on children and families in partnered communities. We are relieved to report that all the children sponsored through Food for the Hungry were accounted for and safe. Thank you for your prayers! FH Canada’s partnered communities of Cachiman and Mategouasse were virtually unaffected. FH USA communities, however, did not fare as well.

The $48,200 generously given by FH Canada supporters helped fund relief efforts focused on those communities hit by the hurricane where FH affiliates have a presence. This aid is helping families get back on their feet and refocused on their community’s development goals. FH immediately distributed food supplies and water purification tablets which helped prevent the outbreak of waterborne illnesses. Follow-up relief included basic cooking items, water cans, soap, buckets, and towels. FH also mobilized local volunteers who had experience with clean water and sanitation initiatives, and who could assist people in rebuilding their homes.

Your donations and prayers have encouraged the hard working FH Haiti team and the children and families that are starting to pick up the pieces and live their lives again. Thank you!

Your donations brought relief to 7,569 families — roughly 37,845 individuals.

32,305 individuals benefited from water, hygiene, and sanitation.

2,596 families received shelter.

20 schools with 1,735 students received construction materials and water filters.

105 families received water purification treatment assistance.

1,657 families and 20 *UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Statistics from ReliefWeb http://reliefweb.int/report/haiti/haitihurricane-matthew-situation-report-no-21-11-november-2016

schools were supported with Sawyer water filters.

DELIVERING HOPE Food for the Hungry’s Emergency Response Unit (ERU) and its International Medical Equipment Distribution (IMED) program, responded to a number of pleas from around the world in the past half year with the help of many caring Canadians, like you.

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Dehydrated Soup Mix

9,760kgs to Karen state, MYANMAR 18,720 kg to Nueva Segovia, NICARAGUA 8,751kg to Kigali, RWANDA

19,400kg to Nebaj, GUATEMALA

9,420kg to Lokoja region, NIGERIA

18,322kg to Nebaj, GUATEMALA

8,029kg to Tanga City, TANZANIA 711kg of medicine to refugees in 22 Erbil, IRAQ

ISSUE 20

ENDING POVERTY TOGETHER

BOOTCAMP RETHINKING CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

To Register: runforwater.ca/run

This is an interactive workshop from a biblical worldview designed to help redefine your understanding of poverty—both causes and solutions—in Canada and abroad. Connect with like-minded individuals while gaining a healthy, hope-filled approach to engaging in poverty alleviation.

Host a workshop with us!

Host from your own church or another venue. Invite church leaders, local ministries, neighbours, and friends to engage in dialogue.

Understand poverty, help clarify issues, and provide positive solutions while enjoying:

ABBOTSFORD Saturday—MAY 27 Trail Run | Ultra Marathon Sunday—MAY 28 Half Marathon | 10K Run | 5K Fun Run

CALGARY Saturday—JUNE 10 10K Run | 5K Fun Run We think that running is really awesome and that everyone should have access to clean water. Join in and help raise funds for clean water projects in nine communities in Dengali, Ethiopia.

video clips stories & discussion activities & illustrations expert facilitation Interested? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us at BOOTCAMP@FHCANADA.ORG To find out more or to attend a Boot Camp near you, visit FHCANADA.ORG/BOOTCAMP

Currently children in Dengali walk over 2 hours to get water that is full of bacteria and disease…let’s get our own feet moving and change this. With your help we are going to bring clean water to the families in Dengali.

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THE A Worship Hoedown is coming to a town near you!

Visit TimmyTour.com for concert dates, tickets, song downloads, and more!

Get an exclusive earlybird discount with promo code “HeyHoser”.

TOUR

1 - 31741 Peardonville Road, Abbotsford, BC V2T 1L2 1.800.667.0605 info@fhcanada.org fhcanada.org @fhcanada facebook.com/foodforthehungrycanada

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blog.fhcanada.org

ISSUE 20