Roots of Peace recently issued a press release to introduce Ho Thanh Phuc, a farmer in Vietnam who is participating in the organization’s SHADE program. Intended to reinvigorate rural farmers’ economic livelihoods, SHADE provides them with a wide range of agricultural resources that help them develop commercial black pepper crops. The farmers also engage in educational training, where they learn sustainable techniques to significantly increase the quality and output of their black pepper orchards.
Due to assistance from SHADE, Ho Thanh Phuc is more prepared to care for his crops and determine the most profitable time to sell his peppers to new international markets. Phuc credits the SHADE program with his ability to support his family’s health, education, and quality of life. By creating jobs and additional income, SHADE also reduces conflict and fosters stability in rural agricultural communities with high poverty rates.