World Relief became involved in the 1960's and 1970's with the Heifer Project. In 1995, World Relief investigated other ways to be more involved in Haiti agriculture. They learned of S.E.E.D Ministries, an agriculture school in Les Cayes, founded by Frantz Clotaire, a native Haitian. The S.E.E.D. mission is to teach agriculture skills as well as the Gospel message of salvation.
Providing for their families
There are about 30-35 students in each of the first and second year classes who study agronomy, forestry, and animal science along with the study of the Bible. These students also have hands-on experience, with each having a garden plot they are graded on.
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Student planting garden
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About 20-25 students go on to the third year extension program. The purpose of the gardens is to demonstrate how the farmers can increase quantity and quality of their products by using better techniques such as composting, seed selection, weed control, and irrigation where necessary. The students also help the pastor with church related activities.
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New techniques and results
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This agricultural knowledge gives the farmers the ability to better provide for their families. This ministry has brought about a trust between the community and the students so the seed of salvation can be planted in the hearts of unbelievers. The third year program has been fully financed by World Relief for the past 17 years.
One Hundred Fold
 Another ministry, "One Hundred Fold," was organized in 2005 when a number of brothers saw the need and began sending farm machinery to S.E.E.D., with the desire to see their production increase 100%. So far, this organization has sent two tractors, a plow, disk, planter, cultivator, sprayer, and a corn sheller. They have also sent hybrid seed corn and herbicides.
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Veterinary class
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- Prayer. Pray that the work in Haiti agriculture will make a difference to help feed the Haitian people and bring them the message of salvation.
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Work Teams. Twice a year, in January and March, work teams are sent. You can help by participating on one of these teams, which are involved in construction projects, maintenance of machinery, and instructional teaching. Click here for work teams.
- Dairy Program. At this time, a World Relief committee is considering starting a dairy program.
These are all projects you can become a part of. With your prayers, physical and financial help, the Haitian farmers can learn to raise an abundant crop, allowing them to better provide for their families and feed the population at large, all to the glory of God.
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If you desire to support this project, donations can be made out to "AC World Relief" and given to your local WR Representative or mailed to:
AC World Relief
Haiti S.E.E.D. Ministries
711 Elm Drive
Bluffton, IN 46714Donate Online
Visit our website to make a secure donation via credit card. Indicate "Haiti SEED" in the drop down menu.
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How does agriculture in Haiti compare to the U.S.? How can we help feed the Haitian people and bring them the message of salvation?
While progress is slow because of financial limitations and cultural differences, there are improvements. The question is, will these be soon enough to overcome food shortages? Helping others must be done with respect for their dignity, views, and culture. It can only be accomplished if we go as a learner and walk with them as a partner. All glory is given to Christ, not to man.