SPRING2025-Issue 2 : simplebooklet.com

Our Team 03Connect With Usin PrayerFeatured Story 06FFTP’s TruckDrivingScholarships forWomen Note From Our CDOA Note from MichelleGollapalli onWomen’sEmpowerment04Buzzword:Empowerment 05Empowering TheirFutureTransforming LivesThrough IndigenousDesigns Featured Story09Medical12Keonie’s Journey:Empowering Womenin MedicineBenevolent Program17A Mother’s LoveMoves Mountains15Building DreamsHow One FFTPHome Empowereda Mother ToTransform HerFamily’s FutureResults at a Glance21A Brief Look atthe ImpactThrough ProjectsFood For ThePoor Day22CelebratingMay 7 as FFTPDayBrainteasers andTasty Pleasers24A Bit of FunBe an Advocate 23Aubrey, an FFTPVolunteer, GivesHis TestimonyTable ofContents

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From the CDOClick here to watch the “Beyond the Plate” podcast where I participated on a panel aboutWomen’s Empowerment.I am thrilled to present our second issue ofFFTP’s Quarterly Magazine, focusing on a topicthat is close to my heart: Women’sEmpowerment. This issue showcases thetransformative power of empowering women inthe communities we serve across Latin Americaand the Caribbean. Our focus on women’sempowerment is a crucial part of the FFTPstrategy, recognizing that when we empowerwomen, we uplift entire communities.I invite you to delve into this issue and join us incelebrating the strength and potential of women.Your support enables us to continue this vitalwork, creating lasting change in the lives of thosewe serve. Together, we’re not just providing aid;we’re investing in the power of women totransform their communities and break the cycleof poverty. Thank you for being part of thisjourney of empowerment.Executive Vice President &Chief Development OfficerMichelle Gollapalli,MBA CFRE CAP04Issue 02 April 2025

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Buzzword: EmpowermentBy Wendy ShervingtonFor Food For The Poor (FFTP),“Empowerment” is more than just a buzzword– it’s a fundamental principle that guides ourmission and approach to sustainabledevelopment. At its core, empowermentmeans providing individuals, particularlywomen, with the tools, resources andopportunities they need to take control oftheir lives and become agents of positivechange in their communities. FFTP viewsempowerment as a multifaceted process thatencompasses economic, social and spiritualdimensions. Economically, we focus on creating income-generating opportunities that allow women toachieve financial independence. Socialempowerment is another crucial aspect of ourwork. By ensuring that the homes we build areregistered in the woman’s name, we providethem with a vital asset and security. Thispolicy strengthens women’s positions withintheir families and communities, giving them astronger voice in decision-making processes.“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” - Proverbs 31:25FFTP also recognizes the importance of spiritual empowerment. We believe that nurturing the whole person,including their faith and values, is essential for true empowerment. This holistic approach helps buildresilience and provides a source of strength for the women we serve.By empowering women, FFTP is not just improving individual lives but also catalyzing broader communitydevelopment. Empowered women become leaders and role models, inspiring others and creating a rippleeffect of positive change. This aligns with our focus on sustainable community development, where weaddress economic, social and spiritual challenges holistically.As we continue to evolve our strategies, FFTP remains committed to learning and adapting our approach toempowerment. We recognize that true empowerment is a long-term process that requires sustained effortand partnership with the communities we serve. By focusing on empowerment, we’re not just providingtemporary relief, but investing in the long-term resilience and prosperity of communities across LatinAmerica and the Caribbean.Empowering Their Future: FFTP’s Holistic Approach to Women’sEmpowerment05Issue 02 April 2025

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Driving Toward Empowerment:FFTP’s Innovative Truck DrivingScholarships for Women inHondurasIn the coastal town of Puerto Cortés,Honduras, a groundbreaking initiative ispaving the way for women'sempowerment and economicadvancement. Food For The Poor(FFTP), in collaboration with CEPUDO,has launched the Women’sEmpowerment Vocational ScholarshipsPhase III project, offering 30 women theopportunity to become certified truckdrivers.This innovative program addressesmultiple challenges faced by women inHonduras, where poverty rates are highand economic opportunities are oftenlimited, especially for women. Byproviding scholarship funding to thePuerto Cortés Transportation School,FFTP is not only opening doors to alucrative profession but also challenginggender norms in a traditionally male-dominated industry.The four-month truck driving programoffers comprehensive training, includingover 400 hours of instruction,theoretical and practical lessons, virtualsimulator training, and real-world drivingexperience. Upon completion, graduatescan expect to earn nearly double theHonduran minimum wage, with salariescomparable to their male counterparts.This significant income boost has thepotential to lift entire families out ofpoverty, with an estimated 150 peoplebenefiting indirectly from this initiative.In a country where gender inequality isprevalent, this project represents asignificant step toward leveling theplaying field. By entering the truckingindustry, these women are not onlysecuring their financial futures but alsochallenging societal expectations andpaving the way for future generations ofwomen in Honduras.07Food For The Poor

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FFTP’s commitment goes beyond just providing educational opportunities. The project includes monthlycare packages with essential items like rice, beans and toiletries, as well as a monthly stipend of $125 for fourmonths to support participants during their training. This holistic approach ensures that participants canfocus on their studies without the added stress of basic survival needs.The impact of this project extends far beyond the 30 women directly involved. As these women becomebreadwinners and role models in their communities, they inspire others and contribute to shiftingperceptions about women’s capabilities and roles in society.While the challenges in Honduras are significant, with high poverty rates and economic inequality, initiativeslike this truck driving scholarship program offer a beacon of hope. By investing in women’s education andeconomic empowerment, FFTP is contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future for Honduras.As we look to the future, it’s clear that empowering women is not just about individual success stories – it’sabout transforming communities and building a more resilient, equitable society. Through the generoussupport of donors and partners, FFTP continues to drive change, one woman at a time, in Honduras andbeyond.Students have the chance to experience driving real commercial trucks.08Food For The Poor

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Weaving Empowerment: FFTP Donors Transform Lives Through Indigenous Designs ProjectIn the heart of Guatemala’s rural communities, a remarkable transformation is taking place. Food For ThePoor (FFTP), in partnership with Mercado Global, is spearheading the Indigenous Designs project, an initiativethat’s not just teaching skills, but reshaping lives and communities. This impactful project has been madepossible through the generous support of our donors, whose contributions are directly empoweringIndigenous women and their families.The first two years of this donor-funded project have exceeded expectations, empowering hundreds ofwomen to become Mercado Global partner artisans. These women have received comprehensive technicaltraining, surpassing initial goals and creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout their communities.At the core of this initiative is the belief that empowerment comes through education and opportunity. TheCommunity-Based Education workshops, funded by FFTP donors, have been instrumental in transformingpartner artisans into entrepreneurs and community leaders. These workshops cover a wide range of subjects,equipping women with the knowledge and confidence to run their own businesses and make informeddecisions about their futures.For many participants, the project has provided essential tools of the trade. Thanks to donor support, FFTPhas distributed numerous sewing machines and looms with weaving sets to artisans facing the greatestfinancial need. These tools are not just equipment; they’re keys to financial independence and artisticexpression.The construction of a Technical Training Center in Sololá, made possible by FFTP donors, marks a significantmilestone in the project’s growth. This facility allows for more efficient training and onboarding of partnerartisans, paving the way for the program to scale its impact even further.10Food For The Poor

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One of the most exciting developments is that the productscreated by these skilled artisans are now being sold in theUnited States by popular brands. Clients include well-knownnames like Levi’s®, StitchFix and Free People, along withdozens of boutiques and specialty brands across thecountry. This exposure to the U.S. market has significantlyboosted the income of the artisans, fundamentally changingtheir lives. Women who once struggled to make ends meetare now earning a good income, allowing them to supporttheir families, invest in their children’s education and plan forthe future.The project’s resilience was tested during the COVID-19pandemic, but the artisans rose to the challenge. Withcontinued donor support, they produced thousands ofmasks, with many donated, showcasing their ability to adapttheir skills to meet urgent community needs whilemaintaining a crucial income source.One of the most touching aspects of the program is thepersonal growth and empowerment it fosters. Astrid, arecent graduate of the program, embodies thistransformation, saying:“My life changed once I was able toachieve independence from myparents and create my path with myfamily.”In just a few months, Astrid became the president of hergroup, Emprendedoras Trixanas, and has set her sights onbecoming a lawyer to help women facing domestic violence.The Indigenous Designs project continues to expand,providing technical training to more women artisans andoffering transformative support to hundreds of womenacross all phases. This expansion is benefiting thousands ofpeople, demonstrating the far-reaching impact ofempowering women in these communities.As we celebrate the achievements of these remarkablewomen, we’re reminded of the power of targeted,compassionate aid. The Indigenous Designs project, madepossible by the generosity of FFTP donors, is more than justa training program; it’s a testament to the resilience andpotential of Guatemala’s Indigenous women and a beacon ofhope for communities striving for a brighter future.11Food For The Poor

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Keonie’s journey from Portmore, Jamaica, is a testament to the power of determination and the impact ofsupport in empowering women to pursue their dreams in the medical field. From an early age, Keonieharbored a deep-seated ambition to become a medical doctor, a goal that seemed daunting given hereconomically disadvantaged background. Despite the challenges, Keonie’s unwavering commitment to her dream has brought her to the threshold of anoble profession. As she completes her studies, she is poised to join the ranks of healthcare workers whoplay a critical role in managing healthcare systems worldwide. Her journey not only represents personalachievement but also contributes to the broader narrative of women’s empowerment in medicine. Thesupport Keonie has received has been instrumental in her progress. Generous donors have contributed to hertuition for over three years and covered her dormitory fees, alleviating significant financial burdens thatoften hinder students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This assistance has enabled Keonie to focus on herstudies and move closer to realizing her lifelong ambition.13Food For The Poor

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Keonie’s journey represents a fightfor women’s empowerment in themedical field. As Keonie preparesto enter the medical profession, shejoins a growing number of womenwho are reshaping the healthcarelandscape. Her success will not onlyfulfill her personal dreams but alsoinspire other young women fromsimilar backgrounds to pursuecareers in medicine. By increasingdiversity in the medical field,professionals like Keonie contributeto a more comprehensive andempathetic healthcare delivery. Thesupport Keonie has receivedunderscores the importance ofinvesting in women’s education,particularly in STEM fields. Itdemonstrates how targetedassistance can break down barriersand create opportunities fortalented individuals to contributeto society in meaningful ways. As Keonie transitions from studentto practitioner, she will becomepart of a global community ofhealthcare professionals working toimprove patient care and healthoutcomes. Her journey from aneconomically disadvantagedbackground to a position ofresponsibility and influence inhealthcare is a testament towomen’s empowerment and thetransformative power of educationand support.Keonie’s story is a reminder thatwhen we invest in women'seducation and empower them topursue their dreams, we not onlychange individual lives but alsocontribute to the advancement ofentire communities andprofessions. As she embarks on hermedical career, Keonie carries withher the hopes and aspirations ofmany, embodying the spirit ofwomen’s empowerment in theever-evolving field of medicine.14Food For The Poor

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Building Dreams: How One FFTP Home Empowered aMother To Transform Her Family’s FutureIn the heart of rural Jamaica stands a house that tells a powerful story of transformation, hope and women’sempowerment. At its core is a Food For The Poor (FFTP) home, now the centerpiece of an expandeddwelling that represents one woman’s journey from struggle to stability and self-reliance. We spoke withMiss Bent, a resilient homeowner and mother of two, about her experience and how it empowered her tochange her family’s life.FFTP: Miss Bent, can you tell us about your situation before receiving your FFTP home?Miss Bent: Oh my God, we never had nowhere to [stay]. We had ups and downs from here to there. I hadtwo children, and we were constantly moving.As a single mother, Miss Bent faced the daunting challenge of providing stability for her children in the faceof housing insecurity. But in 2018, everything changed when she received a house from FFTP.FFTP: How did you feel when you learned you would receive a home?Miss Bent: I almost faint[ed] when I [got] it. I [moved in] straight away when I [got] here.The joy in her voice was evident, even years later. This home became more than just shelter; it was thefoundation upon which Miss Bent could build a better life for herself and her children.Interview and video by Susan James-Casserly15Issue 02 April 2025

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FFTP: We can see that you’ve expanded yourhome. Can you tell us about that process?Miss Bent: Yes, I expand, but I didn’t move any ofthe board. I still keep the board structurebecause [it’s] very, very emotional to getsomething like this from Food For The Poor. Ilove it. I didn’t move anything.Miss Bent’s decision to preserve the original FFTPhouse as she expanded demonstrates not onlyher gratitude but also her resourcefulness andvision as a homeowner.FFTP: How has having this home impacted youfinancially and as a mother?Miss Bent: A lot. When we did live [elsewhere],we [had] to pay rent. So when we get the house,that money where we used to pay the rent, weput it together and together and get a betterstructure.This financial empowerment allowed Miss Bent toinvest in improving her family’s living conditions.As a woman and mother, she was able to makedecisions about her home, create a stableenvironment for her children and plan for theirfuture.FFTP: How has this experience changed youroutlook on what you can achieve?Miss Bent: It’s a pleasure to get this house to expandon it. It gave me the foundation I needed to buildsomething better for my children.Her words reflect the confidence and sense ofpossibility that come with homeownership andfinancial stability.FFTP: If you could speak to other women in similarsituations, what would you tell them?Miss Bent: I would say, don’t give up. When you getan opportunity like this, use it to build somethingbetter. We, as women, can do so much when we havea chance.As our interview concluded, we asked Miss Bent ifthere was anything she wanted to say to the FFTPteam and donors. Her response was heartfelt:“Thanks very much. God bless you all. You’vechanged not just my life, but my children’s future.”Miss Bent’s story is a powerful testament to the role ofhousing in women’s empowerment. Her expandedhome, with the original FFTP house at its heart, standsas a physical representation of a mother’sdetermination, resourcefulness and vision for herfamily’s future. It’s a reminder that when we empowerwomen with basic necessities like housing, we enablethem to build better lives for themselves and theirchildren. As we celebrate stories like Miss Bent’s, we’reinspired by the resilience of women and thetransformative impact of FFTP’s work in communitiesaround the world.Please click on the image to see Miss Bent’sfull interview.16Food For The Poor

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A Mother’s Love Moves Mountains – Isabel’s Fight forMarcela’s HeartIn the quiet hills of Guatemala, a mother’s determination becamethe catalyst for a miracle that would span continents. IsabelParedes faced an unimaginable challenge when her daughter,Marcela, was born on December 31, 2020, with her heart beatingoutside her tiny chest — a rare condition called ectopia cordis.Doctors in Guatemala delivered a devastating prognosis: theylacked the expertise to perform the complex surgery Marceladesperately needed. With only 8 in 1 million babies born with thiscondition, and 90% not surviving beyond three days, the oddswere stacked against Marcela. But Isabel refused to acceptdefeat. “I told Marcela she was a warrior,” Isabel recalls, hervoice filled with fierce determination. This maternal instinct would become the driving force behind aremarkable international journey to save her daughter’s life.Isabel’s relentless search for help led to a video of 5-month-oldMarcela reaching Food For The Poor (FFTP) in May 2021. Theorganization recognized the urgency and reached out to BostonChildren’s Hospital, renowned for its expertise in complexpediatric cardiac care. Dr. Sitaram Emani, Director of theComplex Biventricular Repair Program at Boston Children’s,reviewed Marcela’s case and saw potential where others hadseen only impossibility. He and his team determined that Marcela was a candidate for atwo-stage surgical repair — a challenging but potentiallylifesaving procedure. While Boston Children’s Hospital offered asignificant discount, the cost remained far beyond the means ofMarcela’s family. Undeterred, Isabel’s story inspired FFTP tolaunch the “Have a Heart for Marcela” campaign. The responsefrom donors was overwhelming, a testament to the power of amother’s love to move hearts across borders.In September 2021, at 9 months old, Marcela underwent her firstsurgery. Dr. Emani and his team successfully repaired structuraldefects in her heart, setting the stage for the more complexprocedure to come. Isabel’s joy was palpable as she cradledMarcela in her arms for the first time without fear. “The worldhas suddenly opened up,” she shared. On August 8, 2022,Marcela faced her second and most critical surgery. With skilland precision, the surgical team at Boston Children’s Hospitalgently placed Marcela’s heart where it belonged: safely insideher chest. Today, Marcela is a thriving 3-year-old, attending preschool andliving the life of a typical toddler. Her big, expressive eyes andsweet smile belie the incredible odds she has overcome, thanksto her mother’s unwavering advocacy.18Food For The Poor

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Isabel’s journey embodies the spirit of women’s empowerment. She faced seemingly insurmountableobstacles with courage and persistence, navigating complex medical systems and crossing internationalborders to secure the care her daughter needed. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength that lieswithin every mother and the change that can occur when that strength is supported by a compassionateglobal community. As we celebrate Marcela’s miracle, we also honor Isabel, a mother who refused to give up and whose loveand determination knew no bounds. Her fight for Marcela’s life is a testament to the transformative power ofwomen when they stand up for what they believe in, even against the greatest of odds.19Food For The Poor

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Number of home gardens established aspart of project intervention728Number of families who completedagricultural training to establishhome gardens618Number of active SCD projects 16Number of individuals reached with behaviorchange interventions to improve food securityand healthy eating habits3,147Number of active participants inincome generation interventions6,761Number of individuals trained in disaster preparednessand Disaster Risk Management (DRM)1,186Number of individuals withincreased access to safe water15,976Number of households engaged inSustainable Community Development(SCD) programs1,878Number of individuals who have participated intraining workshops on socioemotional skills (trust,self-esteem, communication and values)1,169Results at a GlanceBy Program Quality and MEAL 21Issue 02 April 20253,023Number of individuals trained on adequatesanitation and hygiene practices*Numbers shown are as of 3/25/2025

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Accepting this prestigious honor on behalf of FFTP were CEO and President Ed Raine, EVP and ChiefOperating Officer Mark Khouri, and EVP and Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Alexander. Their presenceunderscored the significance of this moment in our organization’s history — a testament to the collectiveefforts of our team and generous supporters.Food For The Poor Day is more than just an acknowledgment; it is a day for celebration, reflection andaction. It’s an opportunity for us to come together with the community — to volunteer, raise awareness andadvocate for those we serve. This day embodies the spirit of compassion and reminds us all of the power wehave to make a difference.As we embrace the new season, we are inspired to continue our mission with renewed vigor. Spring remindsus that every act — whether volunteering time, donating resources, or spreading awareness — has thepotential to change lives. Together, we can fight poverty and hunger while building brighter futures for thosein need.Let’s celebrate May 7 as Food For The Poor Day, united in kindness and committed to creating lastingchange — one act at a time.22Celebrating Food For The Poor DaySpring is a season of renewal and hope, and at Food For The Poor(FFTP), it serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found incommunity and generosity. This year, we are proud to celebrate aremarkable milestone: the City of Coconut Creek has officiallyproclaimed May 7 as “Food For The Poor Day.”The journey to this special recognition began on April 11, 2024,during a regular meeting of the Coconut Creek City Commission. Atthis gathering, Mayor Sandra L. Welch introduced a proclamationthat highlighted the transformative impact FFTP has had on thecommunity. The proclamation honored our organization as a beaconof hope, providing critical support and resources to hundreds ofthousands of families battling poverty and hunger.Please click to watch a video of Coconut Creek’smayor visiting Food For The Poor.Issue 02 April 2025

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We welcome you to join us and become an FFTP advocate. You can make an impact! Please contact us toparticipate in our efforts to pack food kits and hygiene kits for the people we serve. Visit our resource pageand click the link for more information. These kits are crucial components of our efforts. Hygiene kits promote health and well-being by providingessential items like soap, toothpaste and sanitary products. Similarly, food kits address hunger and nutritionalneeds, ensuring that individuals and families have access to nourishing meals.Together, we can create positive change and bring hope to those who need it most.Thank you for your continued support, prayers and willingness to make a difference.How You Can Help:Be an Advocate forFFTP23Aubrey McLean’s testimony:I started volunteering at Food For The Poor onMarch 21, 2023, but my connection to theorganization goes back much further. Growing upin Guyana as a single father, I received food andhousehold supplies from Food For The Poorthrough my church, which helped my familythrough tough times. I never imagined that lifewould bring me full circle — now, as a retireeliving in Florida, I have the privilege of giving backto the same organization that once blessed me. My wife and I discovered Food For The Poor bychance while biking through our neighborhood,and from the moment we walked through thedoors, we felt welcomed. Volunteering here ismore than just service; it’s a joyful experiencefilled with camaraderie, purpose and faith. It’sincredibly rewarding to pass on these blessings toothers, and I’m grateful to now share thisexperience with my 17-year-old daughter. Ifsomeone asked me why I volunteer, I wouldsimply say: “Where else can you go, dance, singand have fun while making a difference?”Volunteering here is more than justservice; it’s a joyful experiencefilled with camaraderie, purposeand faith. Issue 02 April 2025

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ACROSS:All the things a person owns, like property ormoney, especially after they pass away.A gift to charity or someone in need.Land or buildings that can be given to acharity.The King will reply, “I tell you the truth,whatever you did for the least of thesebrothers of mine, you did for me.”(BLANK)25:31-40.8.11.12.13.DOWN:A place or organization that helps others,often receiving donations.A gift passed down through generations.Money saved for the future.A part of something, often left in a will for acharity or others.The process of raising money for a cause.1.2.3.4.5.FFTP Brain Teasers & Tasty Pleaserswww.foodforthepoor.orgClick on the image of the crossword to play it online and test your FFTP knowledge!24Issue 02 April 2025

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FFTP Brain Teasers & Tasty PleasersIngredientsWhole fish (such as red snapper orgrouper)Lime juiceGarlic clovesScotch bonnet pepperThymeParsleyGreen onionsSalt and pepperOlive oilInstructionsClean the fish and make diagonal cuts on both sides.1.Create a marinade with lime juice, minced garlic,chopped Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, parsley, greenonions, salt and pepper. 2.Marinate the fish for at least an hour.3.Grill the fish over charcoal or wood fire until cookedthrough.4.Serve with a side of rice and beans or plantains.5.“Pwason Boukannen” (Grilled Fish)The traditional Haitian grilled fish dish, Pwason Boukannen, symbolizes women’s empowerment in Haiti. Itrepresents economic independence through women’s crucial role in the fishing industry and local markets,while showcasing their resourcefulness in creating nourishing meals from local ingredients. The preparationof the dish highlights women’s culinary expertise, with the blend of flavors mirroring their diverse talents andresilience in overcoming challenges. The grilling process symbolizes how their efforts positively transformtheir communities. By passing down recipes, women preserve their cultural heritage and empower future generations. Sharingthe dish fosters solidarity and community building among women. Ultimately, Pwason Boukannen serves as adelicious reminder of Haitian women’s strength, ingenuity and vital contributions to their families,communities and cultural identity. Click here to print the recipe.Important Safety Tip: When handling Scotch bonnet peppers, be sure to wear rubber gloves to protect your skin fromthe oils that can cause irritation and burning.25Food For The Poor

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www.foodforthepoor.org27Food For The PoorResources: We are here for you! VOLUNTEER PROGRAMHTTPS://FOODFORTHEPOOR.ORG/VOLUNTEER-TODAY/888-940-4076 HTTPS://FOODFORTHEPOOR.ORG/PRAYER/PRAYER LINE800-568-8124HTTPS://FOODFORTHEPOOR.ORG/MISSION-TRIPS/MISSION TRIPSSOCIAL MEDIAHTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FOODFORTHEPOOR/ DONOR SERVICES954-427-2222800-487-1158BEYOND THE PLATE PODCASTBEYOND THE PLATE (a Food For ThePoor Podcast)Welcome and join us for inspiringconversations that nourish your soul.With every episode, our encouragingguests share their life and truly liveFFTP's mission. Sign-up for our 'BESTBITE' (our dedicated fans who wantmore fun and inspiration) and if yourbusiness or ministry would like toengage our listeners, simply sign-up forinfo on Beyond the Plate PodcastSponsorship.TO LISTEN NOW AND GET MOREINFO, FIND US AT:WWW.FOODFORTHEPOOR.ORG/PODCASTLEGACY & GIFT PLANNINGCALL US TOLL FREE 1-866-501-4052 OREMAILLEGACYGIVING@FOODFORTHEPOOR.ORG

SPRING2025-Issue 2

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