Another humid day in Honduras, another day for 24-year-old Maritza to take care of her family: her husband and 6-year-old daughter. As the morning dawns, Maritza begins her daily tasks of tending her garden and small farm.
But don’t be fooled. Gardening and farming are more than just chores to her.
“I love watching the plants grow each day, and when harvest season comes, I feel so happy to see the fruits of my effort,” she said. “I also enjoy taking care of animals — I have Brahma roosters, geese, Silkie chickens, laying hens, and more.”
Convoy of Hope’s Agricultural program has opened a window of possibilities for Maritza, who knows what it’s like to struggle both mentally and spiritually. “It makes me feel very grateful for the new opportunity God has given me. Knowing that my husband and I are gathering again makes me very happy.”
Many women like Maritza don’t grow up doing farm work, especially in countries like Honduras where “machismo” reigns. A woman providing an income for her family is often not ever considered.
“I didn’t know anything about how to take care of a garden. But when I joined the program, it sparked my interest and desire to learn,” Maritza said. “Now, I feel a great love for my garden. I never imagined I would enjoy working with plants so much and learning about farming.”
Besides igniting a new love for learning about gardening, the program is also equipping her with training and the proper farming tools.
“Through Convoy of Hope, I have learned many things that I didn’t know before. When I started, I knew nothing about farming, but now I know how to plant, fertilize, prune, stake, and take care of my crops. I also learned how to organize my garden according to the types of plants.”
And Maritza isn’t the only one who benefits from the program — the people around her do, too.
“Every two weeks I prepare homemade bread and natural juices to sell and help at home. It’s work that brings me a lot of satisfaction and allows me to contribute to my family.”
Because of Convoy and supporters like you, women like Maritza are given the opportunity to plant and nurture their own land.
“I want to thank everyone at Convoy of Hope. You have always been there to encourage and support me. I am very grateful for everything you’ve taught me.”
With the tools in her possession, Maritza can now use her own hands to reap what she has sown.
