Value of Seed Programs

Vegetables are an ideal supplement to the carbohydrate-based diet of most of the world’s poorest people. In addition to flavor and variety, vegetables supply essential vitamins and minerals lacking in most diets. This improved nutrition is especially critical for children with immune systems compromised by HIV/AIDs.

Gardens are valuable self-help sources of food and income. In addition to feeding their families, seed recipients can sell excess produce to purchase other necessities. Perhaps the greatest benefit is the sense of hope and pride arising from being food self-sufficient.

“I have never seen the students so excited and they love showing off their gardens to me when I come to visit. The students no longer view eating vegetables as something foreign and they can look at their plates and tell me if it is balanced and they all want to grow up to be strong and healthy.” - Peru