Canada improving food security and livelihoods of rural poor in Central America
BOLTON, ON, Canada — Improving food security, health and education are helping to move women and men out of poverty in El Salvador and Honduras. David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin – Caledon, announced Canada’s support for an initiative to help combat food insecurity and reduce poverty in Central America.
“Fighting food insecurity, poverty and hunger are at the root of Canada’s international development assistance,” said MP Tilson. “Through this partnership with S.H.A.R.E. Agriculture Foundation, we are improving the food security and economic livelihoods of rural families in El Salvador and Honduras.”
The initiative is helping 95 rural communities in these two countries to alleviate poverty and increase food security through improved sustainable farming practices, adult literacy training and greater health and nutrition awareness. Through vocational and leadership training for small, rural alternative enterprises such as masonry, carpentry, baking and sewing, over 2000 women and men are working toward increasing their education levels for employment, which will contribute to higher family incomes and economic growth. Eco-stoves are being built for 227 women, enabling them to cook meals faster and reduce wood and food expenses. In addition, 1,800 women are receiving training in more hygienic and safer cooking methods to improve family well-being, health and nutrition.
“The S.H.A.R.E. Agriculture Foundation is pleased to have the support of the Government of Canada in our work with rural communities in El Salvador and Honduras,” said Les Frayne, Project Manager for SHARE in Central America. “The participants involved are very engaged and working hard to achieve their goals. We are confident that this initiative is resulting in permanent improvements in the lives of many families and in the local environments in rural communities.”
Canada’s Food Security Strategy focuses on sustainable agricultural development, food assistance and nutrition, and research to develop innovative food security solutions. The Strategy places a special emphasis on supporting women and smallholder farmers, recognizing their central role in agricultural production and economic development.
The Government of Canada will contribute $726,381 over three years to S.H.A.R.E. Agriculture Foundation to implement this initiative.