Kusumbai is 62 years old and lives in the slums of Chopda, India. After losing her husband, she experienced discrimination, rejection, and neglect in her community. When the Hindustani Covenant Church and Covenant Social Service provided her goats, which provide a consistent source of nutrition through milk, meat, and other byproducts, her life changed.
The goats have brought Kusumbai not only a source of income but also a sense of purpose. She treats them as a gift from God, and they have become like family members often sheltering inside her one-room hut. Kusumbai was able to sell one of the offspring to gain much-needed financial relief and gave another back to the program so another family could benefit.
A significant portion of the population in India relies on farming for their livelihoods, but crops can be vulnerable to climate-related challenges. So Covenant World Relief and Development (CWRD) partners created a program to empower farmers, particularly women like Kusumbai, by providing them with livestock such as goats. Diversifying families’ income sources helps these communities cope with unexpected setbacks and improves overall resilience.
Farmers who receive livestock are trained in animal care and management, enabling them to take an active role in the household’s economic activities. This not only increases their self-esteem but also enhances their decision-making power within the family.
Animal husbandry programs promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve the livelihoods of rural families. They are a crucial lifeline for people struggling with food insecurity. In both India and Haiti, CWRD partners have demonstrated the potential for sustainable development and poverty alleviation through animal husbandry programs.
The programs foster a sense of community and cooperation. Participants agree to share the offspring in breeding pairs with neighbors in need, which is transforming communities one pair of animals at a time. In many instances, participants form self-help groups, where they share knowledge and resources to collectively improve their agricultural practices. This not only enhances their farming techniques but also strengthens social bonds, leading to a more resilient and interconnected society. By addressing the root causes of poverty and food insecurity, these programs offer a sustainable path to a brighter future for these communities.
Give a goat to families in need in India or Haiti through the CovCares catalog by clicking below.
