In their continual search for opportunities that can make a positive impact on the community of Port-a-Piment, members of Konbit Pou Potapiman on the ground identified the absence of cow’s milk in the commune. To test their personal observation, they conducted informal discussions with people in the village of Chariole and its surrounding areas. These discussions confirmed that cow milk is very difficult to find in the commune of Port-a-Piment. And this also stirred up an enthusiasm for realization of the project.
A widespread belief is that milk is a product associated with good health and is considered an essential element in a balanced diet, especially for children. In fact, scientific research has shown that cow’s milk contains valuable nutrients needed to nourish the body, especially: Calcium, Protein, and Potassium.
Implementing this project will impact the community in many ways. People in the area will no longer have to depend primarily on canned or powdered milk which are very expensive, and at times extremely challenging to come by. It will help reduce the challenges of food insecurity, unemployment, and natural disasters. Each family taking part will start with a loaner cow that will provide nourishment for them; it will increase their income through the sale of milk and milk products. And within a period of time, this family will be owners of a cow.
The community of Chariole was chosen to start this project. Chariole is a village that is approximately 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) from the town of Port-a-Piment, with a population of 135 families whose primary livelihood is agriculture. To participate in the project, the beneficiaries must go through a vetting process that takes into account the willingness to raise cattle, to produce and market milk. In addition, they must have the means necessary to succeed (space, pasture, and know-how).
On Sunday, April 12th, 2022, 4 families became the first beneficiaries of the program when 2 cows and 2 heifers were distributed. Our goal for this year is to increase the membership of the project to at least 10 families.
Thanks to those who already contributed to this project. Your donations got us rolling. But to attain our goal of impacting at least ten (10) families, we need more help.
Every donation makes a difference. For each one thousand dollars ($1,000) we collect through individual or multiple donations, a family will have access to a cow and cost to cover miscellaneous needs: ropes, milk cans, buckets, veterinarian services, vaccination…. What a difference that will make in their lives!
In the words of Mother Teresa, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” KPP alone cannot change what is happening in our Port-a-Piment. But this project we feel in a few years will create some huge ripples.
We want to thank you in advance for your contribution.
