Starting a chain of health and giving

St. Nicholas, Richfield, sends half an "ark" of farm animals
to a world family in need

Millennium Development Goal #1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger

On May 20, the congregation of St. Nicholas Episcopal Church in Richfield celebrated the culmination of a yearlong mission project for Heifer Project International. What had began as a mission project for the children of the church soon encompassed the entire congregation. We were particularly concerned with Millennium Development Goal #1 which addresses extreme poverty and hunger.



Children from St. Nicholas gathered in front of the church on May 20 as the Rev. Evelyn Lennon (at far left) presented a plaque from Heifer International plaque. Seated at far right is St. Nicholas' priest in charge, The Rev. Thomas Eklo.

A gift "ark" to a third-world family in poverty may include: 2 pigs, 2 camels, 2 water buffalo, 2 guinea pigs, 2 trios of ducks, 2 flocks of chicks, 2 oxen, 2 cows, 2 trios of rabbits, 2 donkeys, 2 beehives, 2 sheep, 2 llamas, 2 flocks of geese, and 2 goats. With the help of The Rev. Evelyn Lennon, an Episcopal deacon who works with the Heifer Project, we raised a little over $2700. This is enough to purchase half an ark.

Our money will help purchase and transport quality animals around the world and help train and support local project partners. In 2006, Heifer International had 726 active projects in 57 countries and 29 states. Our donations will help combat world hunger, provide the opportunity for many children to attend school, and in many other ways help families and communities improve their lives.

The approach of Heifer Project International is to helping people obtain a sustainable source of food and income by providing animals, along with training in animal management; and by teaching environmentally sound agricultural techniques. Heifer recipients agree to pass one or more of their animal's offspring, along with training and skills, to another family in need. The new recipients agree to pass on the gift as well, creating a chain of giving that can touch thousands of lives.

Click here to learn more about Heifer Project International, and how you and your congregation can become involved.