SUMMER 2025-Issue 3 : simplebooklet.com

From the COOAs we reflect on our theme, “Pay it Forward,” I amreminded of how deeply this concept resonates withFood For The Poor’s mission. Our work is not justabout providing immediate relief; it’s aboutempowering communities to create lasting change.Every act of kindness, every donation, and everyvolunteer hour sparks a chain reaction of generositythat transforms lives. Having witnessed the impact ofour efforts firsthand, I’ve seen how those we’vehelped often become the most passionate advocatesfor others in need. This beautiful cycle of givingembodies the essence of “paying it forward” and liesat the heart of our mission to serve God by servingothers.For me, paying it forward is not just a philosophy-it’sa way of life that was instilled in me from childhood.Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica, every Christmasmy father would pack grocery bags filled with all theessentials for a Christmas dinner. On Christmasmorning, we would climb into his pickup truck anddeliver these gifts to families in need. Thosemoments opened my eyes and my heart to theimportance of loving and serving the poor.Years later, after joining Food For The Poor, I had theprivilege of sponsoring a little girl in Nicaraguathrough our Angels of Hope program. Today, she is aremarkable woman with two boys of her own. Shehas become part of our family, a living testament tohow a single act of kindness can echo acrossgenerations and borders.As we continue our work, let us remember that eachsmall act of kindness has the power to create ripplesof positive change far beyond what we can imagine.Together, we can build a world where compassionand generosity are not just ideals, but a way of life.Chief Operating Officer (COO)Food For The Poor Inc.Mark Khouri04Issue 03 July 2025

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Buzz Word: Pay It Forward By Wendy ShervingtonPaying It Forward: A Christian Perspective onUniversal KindnessPaying it forward is more than just a trendy concept; it's a powerful way for Christians to live out their faith in practical,impactful ways. By embracing this principle, believers can create ripples of kindness that extend far beyond theirimmediate circles, truly embodying Christ's love in a world that desperately needs it. While rooted in Christian teachings,this practice of generosity resonates with people of all faiths and backgrounds, inviting everyone to participate inspreading kindness.Paying it forward is a tangible expression of Christ's command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). However,the essence of this practice - selfless giving and compassion - is a universal value found in many spiritual and philosophicaltraditions.An inspiring example of paying it forward comes from Food For The Poor's (FFTP) work in a rural Guatemalan village.When the FFTP team visited to assess housing needs, they encountered a man living in an extremely dilapidated homemade of rusty zinc sheets and weathered boards. Despite his own dire circumstances, this man exemplified the spirit ofselfless giving. Instead of advocating for himself, he directed the team to a neighbor whom he believed was in evengreater need. This touching act of putting others first, even in the face of personal hardship, beautifully illustrates theessence of paying it forward. "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For withthe measure you use, it will be measured to you." - Luke 6:38 (NIV)It’s a beautiful and powerful expression of what it means to truly live out the love and calling of the Christian faith, but it'salso a universal practice that can unite diverse communities in spreading kindness. By embracing this principle, people ofall faiths and beliefs can create ripples of generosity that extend far beyond their immediate circles, embodying thehighest ideals of human compassion in a world that desperately needs it.05Food For The Poor

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Semana Santa: A Time for Reflectionand Paying It ForwardSemana Santa, or Holy Week, is adeeply significant time in many LatinAmerican countries and Spain. Whiletraditionally a period of religiousobservance, it also offers a powerfulopportunity to embody the spirit of"paying it forward" within communities.In many areas celebrating SemanaSanta, local organizations and churchesorganize special outreach programs.Volunteers prepare and distributemeals to the homeless, visit the elderlyin care homes, or collect donations forfamilies in need. These acts of kindnessreflect the core values of the seasonand inspire others to contribute.The iconic processions of SemanaSanta, featuring intricate floats andpenitents in distinctive robes, can bereimagined as vehicles for social good.Some communities have begunincorporating charity drives into theseevents, with spectators encouraged tobring non-perishable food items ormake small donations as theprocessions pass.Involving young people in SemanaSanta traditions while emphasizing theimportance of community service cancreate lasting impact. Schools andyouth groups often organize specialprojects during this time, such ascleaning up public spaces or creatingcare packages for those in need.The true power of "paying it forward"during Semana Santa lies in itspotential to inspire ongoing acts ofkindness and community engagement.By framing these traditions through thelens of generosity and socialresponsibility, we can create a rippleeffect of positive change that extendsfar beyond the holiday itself. As wereflect on the meaning of SemanaSanta, let us consider how we canembody its spirit of renewal andcompassion in our daily lives. By payingforward acts of kindness, we not onlyhonor the essence of this sacred timebut also contribute to buildingstronger, more connected communitiesthroughout the year.07Food For The Poor

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The Ripple Effect of Generosity: FFTP's Support isTransforming El CaraoIn the heart of El Carao, a remarkable transformation isunderway, thanks to the generous support of Food For ThePoor (FFTP) donors. The comprehensive communitydevelopment project launched in 2018 has not onlyimproved living conditions but has also ignited a spark ofhope and determination among residents. One suchresident, Antonia Elizabeth Alvarenga García, shares herinspiring journey, illustrating the profound impact of FFTP'sinitiatives. Antonia's story is particularly inspiring given theeducational challenges faced by her family and community.Most residents, including her parents, did not graduate pastthe third or fourth grade. Despite these obstacles, Antoniahas shown remarkable dedication to her education and isset to graduate from high school this December. Hercommitment to her studies stands as a testament to theopportunities that FFTP's support has helped unlock.The construction of 23 new homes has provided safeshelter for numerous families, including Antonia's.Additionally, her family has participated in livestockfarming, water distribution, and tilapia pond projects,diversifying their sources of income and improving theirfood security."Firstly, the houses were an unexpected support whichbenefited us a lot since we have a safe haven while theother projects helped us economically, such as the eggs ofthe chickens, pigs, tilapia, the beehives, macro tunnels andthe agricultural project."The impact of these projects on the community's financialsituation has been significant. "It was a great change since we sell and we can obtainincome which is very good and the results of our economyhave improved a lot."Beyond financial gains, participants have acquired valuableskills. Antonia highlights collaboration, communication,teamwork, organization, and gratitude as key lessons learned from the FFTP-sponsored projects.The spirit of community support fostered by FFTP'sinitiatives is evident in how beneficiaries are sharing theirknowledge. Antonia, for instance, has been activelyhelping other families improve their poultry farming."Through my experience raising chickens on our farm, Ihave been able to share effective techniques with otherfamilies in the community. From implementing bestpractices in feed management to building more efficientfacilities, we have worked together to increase eggproduction and improve the overall health of poultrylivestock."Currently in her third year of technical high school,Antonia's experiences with FFTP have shaped heraspirations."After high school, I have a dream of studying tobecome a teacher. I want to inspire and educate futuregenerations, helping them develop their skills andpotential. I believe that education is a powerful tool toempower others and contribute positively to society."Moreover, Antonia has taken her commitment to helpingothers a step further. She has been preparing foodbaskets and distributing them to families in need innearby communities. When asked about this initiative,Antonia shared:"I prepared the food baskets to help the people whoneeded it most because I firmly believe in theimportance of supporting the community."This act of kindness has had a profound impact onAntonia herself:"I felt deep satisfaction in being able to contribute in atangible way and seeing the positive impact it had onthe lives of those who received it. Knowing that I wasable to make a small difference in someone's well-beingfilled me with joy and gratitude."Antonia's message to FFTP donors encapsulates thecommunity's gratitude:"Your support has not only transformed individual lives,but has also laid the foundation for a more prosperousand sustainable future in our lifetime. We are deeplygrateful for your trust in us and we hope to continueworking together on initiatives that benefit morepeople."The impact of FFTP's initiatives in El Carao has instilled asense of hope, fostered community spirit, and inspiredresidents to dream big. As Antonia and her communitycontinue to build on this foundation, the ripple effect ofdonors' generosity promises to create lasting positivechange for generations to come.In 2018, Antonia's family was a beneficiary of transformativeFFTP projects.09Food For The Poor

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Community Spotlight:Transforming Lives in Los Achiotes. A SustainableCommunity Development Success StoryThe sustainable community development project inLos Achiotes, Honduras, has made remarkableprogress thanks to the generous support of Food ForThe Poor (FFTP) donors. This initiative has broughthope and positive change to 74 families who werepreviously struggling in an area prone to floodingand natural disasters. Financial training and youthempowerment have been key components of theproject. Twenty-two community membersparticipated in business simulations, learningessential concepts for creating and managingsuccessful enterprises. Additionally, 28 youngindividuals attended workshops focused on self-discovery, rights awareness, and vocationaldevelopment. The impact of this project is bestillustrated through the words of Francisco Diaz, thecommunity leader of Los Achiotes. He expressedprofound gratitude, saying, "We are grateful toCEPUDO, Food For The Poor and the donors for allthe work they have done to help us." Franciscoemphasized how the project has allowed residents We are grateful to CEPUDO,Food For The Poor and thedonors for all the work theyhave done to help us.to "sleep peacefully without worrying about a flood,"transforming their lives after years of struggle anduncertainty.In October, the 74 families were able to relocate to their newhomes in Los Achiotes. The project also included theinauguration of a new school, complete with essentialsupplies for students and teachers. This educationalcomponent is crucial for the community's long-termdevelopment and sustainability.11Food For The Poor

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Other completed components of the projectinclude the construction of a fishing center andcafeteria building, the implementation of income-generating activities, the distribution ofscholarships to 19 young community members andyouth empowerment training covering topics suchas effective communication and job searching.The project team is now focusing on finalizingremaining elements, including completing socialpromoter visits, and conducting additionalworkshops on topics like men's empowerment andmarine resource preservation. This comprehensiveapproach to community development in LosAchiotes demonstrates the power of targeted,sustainable interventions. By addressing housing,education, water access, and economicopportunities simultaneously, FFTP and itspartners have laid the foundation for long-termprosperity and resilience in this Hondurancommunity.The success of Los Achiotes serves as a testamentto the impact of compassionate giving andstrategic development initiatives. As FranciscoDiaz said, "God bless you always." Indeed, thegenerosity of FFTP donors has touched every soulin this community, creating a brighter future forgenerations to come.Entrepreneurs are now earning an income with their own sustainable trades.Students get a nutritious meal with the feeding program.Students attending class in Los Achiotes Elementary School.12Issue 03 July 2025

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In a remarkable display of generosity and community spirit, the Davitt and Ruppert families and friends assisted in thetransformation of the educational landscape of Content Primary School in Jamaica. Their commitment to "paying itforward" goes beyond mere financial contributions; they have actively participated in the construction and developmentof the school's new facilities, ensuring a brighter future for the students and the local community.The project aimed to enhance the educational experience of 60 young students by constructing a new classroombuilding for the infant department. The project was successfully completed, thanks to the unwavering dedication of thedonors and the community.The Davitt and Ruppert families, along with their friends, have made significant contributions to the school. Theyconstructed four classrooms, an administrative office with a bathroom, a nurse's office, a kitchen, and student restrooms.Additionally, they installed a playground, a chain-link fence, a rainwater harvesting system, and provided furniture andappliances. These improvements have not only provided a safe and enriching environment for the students but have alsopositively impacted the faculty and staff. The new facilities offer a conducive environment for learning, free fromdistractions and overcrowding.With the expanded facilities, Content Primary School is now poised to offer a broader range of educational programsand activities. This development caters to the diverse needs and interests of the students, ensuring they receive a well-rounded education.The construction of the new classroom building has also contributed to the development of the local community. Theimproved infrastructure has made the school a beacon of hope and an institution of choice for quality education andchildren's development.Audrey Salmon, a teacher at Content Primary School for over 30 years, expressed her gratitude for the donors' hands-oninvolvement. She noted that the support from the donors made a tremendous difference because they didn’t just donatethe money but were present, interacting with the community, eating, playing, and working alongside them. This personaltouch has made the community feel valued and supported. Audrey also highlighted that the school previously failed tomeet the Early Childhood Commission (ECC) standards, negatively impacting its ability to receive full certification as aregistered early childhood institution. However, with the new facilities, these issues are now in the past, and the schoolcan continue providing a safe educational environment.The completion of this project marks a new chapter for Content Primary School. The school now meets the EarlyChildhood Commission (ECC) standards, ensuring that the children receive an education in a safe environment. TheMinistry of Education has praised the school's upgraded facilities, recognizing it as a model institution.The Davitt and Ruppert families’ and friends’ dedication to "paying it forward" has truly uplifted the spirits and hearts ofthe Content Primary School community. Their hands-on involvement and financial support have created a lasting legacy,providing generations of students with the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing educational environment.As the school continues to grow and develop, the impact of this transformative project will be felt for years to come. Thegenerosity and commitment of the Davitt and Ruppert families serve as an inspiring example of how individuals canmake a profound difference in the lives of others.14Food For The Poor

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17Food For The PoorFor the Stewart-Lechler family, giving back was more than an act of charity - it was a way of life, passeddown from Richard and Diana Stewart to their children and grandchildren. This legacy of service, nowembodied in the Kind Hearts Foundation, touched not only their own lives, but also the lives of countlesspeople across Jamaica.When Christina Hudson reflected on her grandmother, Diana Stewart, she spoke with deep admiration. “Mygrandmother would invite women from her community into her home, teaching them how to sew so theycould have a trade, a way to support their families,” Christina shared. “It was never just about givingmoney. She gave her time, her skills, her love - she gave of herself.”Diana and Richard Stewart ran a small business in downtown Kingston, and Diana insisted that every staffmember be fed - a tradition that eventually touched over 700 people daily. But the impact didn’t stop at thebusiness’s doors. Diana’s quiet generosity rippled through the community, empowering women, upliftingfamilies, and most importantly, teaching her children and grandchildren what it meant to pay it forward.Richard and Diana’s daughter, Jackie Lechler, continued the tradition of service, and together with herhusband, raised four children: Christina Hudson, Amanda Issa, James Lechler, and Richard Lechler. Alongwith their two cousins, Timothy and Stephanie Stewart, the siblings became the driving force behind the KindHearts Foundation - a family-led initiative dedicated to building schools, homes, and hope in Jamaica.Top row from left to right: Amanda Issa, Christina Hudson, Stephanie StewartSecond row from left to right: Richard Lechler, Timothy Stewart, James LechlerThird row: Max Hudson

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“Everyone in the family made these projects apriority,” Christina said. “We still did our buildingprojects together as a family. Even my grandma.And she’s 82.” Her siblings and cousins broughttheir own energy, often inspiring friends andcolleagues to join the cause. Whether it wasorganizing school supply drives, paintingclassrooms, or helping to build compassion homes,the Stewart-Lechler family showed that generositywas strongest when it was shared.With Kind Hearts Foundation, the family’s impactgrew. They partnered with Food For The Poor tobuild schools and compassion homes, and theirprojects reached some of Jamaica’s most vulnerablecommunities. Christina remembered her first timehelping to build homes in Montego Bay at just 17 -amoment that opened her eyes to the power ofgiving. But it was when she joined FFTP at a schoolopening in Clarendon that the magnitude of theirfamily’s impact truly struck her. “I was honestlyblown away,” she said. “I did not know that thiswas something that we could do.”During her interview, Christina paused, overcomewith emotion and her eyes welling up with tears asshe reflected on just how profoundly these projectshad changed her life. She recalled how deeplymoved she was on the day the first school wascompleted after two years of fundraising-a momentso powerful that her family stopped to make sureshe was alright. “You think you’re going to helpsomeone else, but you realize you’re the one who’schanged. I’ve gained so much purpose andperspective from this work. It’s humbled me, mademe grateful, and filled my life with meaning.”She shared that being able to give back brought herfamily closer together and gave them a deepersense of purpose. “It’s not just about what we give,but what we receive in return-the joy, theconnection, the understanding that we are all partof something bigger.”Christina was determined to pass this legacy on toher own children, just as her grandmother did for herand her siblings and cousins. She brought her threeyoung children-ages three to nine-along to projectsites, letting them paint walls, meet the families theyhelped, and see firsthand what it meant to serve.“My kids need to understand how blessed they are,and how important it is to share those blessings.”18Food For The Poor

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She smiled as she described her children’s growing empathy and excitement to help. “They love it. They lookforward to it. And I see them starting to ask, ‘How can we help?’ That’s when I know the cycle iscontinuing.”Their giving became infectious, inspiring friends, neighbors, and even strangers to get involved. Christinashared stories of recipients who, after being helped, turned around and helped others-like the woman wholost her home in Hurricane Beryl but spent months cooking for everyone else in the shelter. “That’s whatpaying it forward is,” Christina said. “It’s a spark that lights another, and another, until a whole communityis glowing with hope.”Even beyond Jamaica, the family’s story inspired others-like model Winnie Harlow, who was moved by asimple social media post to give back to her homeland.For Christina, the greatest gift of all was knowing that her family’s tradition of giving lived on in her children,siblings, cousins, and through the Kind Hearts Foundation. “We’re not doing this for recognition. We’redoing it because it’s the right thing to do, because it’s who we are.”She encouraged others to start small, to give what they could-time, kindness, a helping hand. “You don’thave to change the world in a day. But every small act of kindness adds up. And before you know it, you’vechanged a life. Maybe even your own.”The Stewart-Lechler family proved that paying it forward wasn’t just a tradition-it was a way of life, a legacyof love that grew stronger with every generation, every member, and every project of the Kind HeartsFoundation. And the story continues: this year, the family is excited to build another school in Jamaica,opening new doors of opportunity for children and continuing their mission to uplift communities forgenerations to come.19Food For The Poor

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With no specialists or treatment options available in ElSalvador, the Granados family embarked on a desperatesearch for answers. Their journey led them to DukeUniversity Hospital in the United States, renowned for itsexpertise in Pompe Disease. After countless calls andemails, they connected with Dr. Kishnani and her team, whoquickly recognized the urgency of Santiago’s condition.With their guidance, Santiago began enzyme replacementtherapy (ERT) at El Salvador’s National Children’s Hospital.But the cost was far beyond the means of the family ofseven.The Granados family refused to give up. They organizedraffles, fundraisers, and a GoFundMe campaign, rallyingfriends, family, and strangers to help keep Santiago alive.When local resources ran out, hope arrived through theHumanitarian Aid division of pharmaceutical companySanofi, which committed to providing Santiago with thelife-saving medication he needs for the rest of his life. Yet,the journey was not over. Santiago still required regularfollow-up visits to Duke for specialized care unavailable inEl Salvador. This is where FFTP and FUSAL stepped in,providing critical financial support for hospital visits, labtests, and therapies that have transformed Santiago’sprognosis.The impact was immediate and profound. When Santiagofirst arrived at Duke, he was severely malnourished,weighing only 4.7 kg at 10 months old. The metabolicnutritionist at Duke adjusted his diet, and within two weeks,Santiago began to gain weight and strength. Specializedphysical therapy and leg supports helped him reachdevelopmental milestones that once seemed impossible.Today, Santiago is walking on his own, his muscles growingstronger with each step, and his family’s hope restored.“Thanks to Food for the Poor and FUSAL, every time Iremember the support they have given me, I cry and feelsentimental because, with their help, they have impactedSantiago's life,” shared Hilda, Santiago’s mother.Santiago’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion andcollective action. The Granados family’s gratitude is boundless:“You are part of this miracle! Thank you for believing that Santideserves a chance to live and fight for his life with us!” saidSantiago’s father.Through the generosity of supporters, Santiago’s story hasbecome one of hope, healing, and the promise of a brighterfuture. Every step Santiago takes is a reminder that,together, we can make miracles happen.21Food For The Poor

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23Food For The PoorWe emphasize the importance of giving back through volunteering and supporting any cause that is close to your heart. Your time, dedication, and advocacy for a cause close to your heart will directly impact the lives of individuals and familiesfacing hardship, bringing about positive change and hope.We welcome you to join us and become an advocate for FFTP. You can make a difference! One way is by spreading theword of the work that we do and praying for those we serve. You can also participate in our efforts to pack food kits andhygiene kits. 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 nutritional needs,ensuring that individuals and families have access to nourishing meals.Visit our resource page and click the link for more information.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: Become a volunteer!

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FFTP Brain Teasers & Tasty Pleaserswww.foodforthepoor.orgIngredients1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (Rosa deJamaica)1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)1 cinnamon stick (optional)8 cups waterLime or mint for garnishInstructions1.Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.2.Steep Flowers: Add the dried hibiscus flowers and the cinnamonstick (if using) to the boiling water. Let it steep for about 10minutes.3.Strain and Sweeten: Strain the liquid into a pitcher, discardingthe hibiscus flowers and cinnamon stick. Stir in the sugar untilfully dissolved.4.Dilute with Cold Water: Add the remaining 4 cups of cold waterto the pitcher. Mix well.5.Chill and Serve: Refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice, garnishedwith a lime wedge or mint if desired.Rosa De JamaicaRosa de Jamaica, also known as agua de jamaica, is a beloved traditional drink in Guatemala made from dried hibiscusflowers. This vibrant, deep red beverage is not only refreshing but also packed with health benefits, including high levels ofantioxidants and vitamin C. It is commonly enjoyed chilled, often with a squeeze of lime, and is a popular choice atcelebrations and gatherings throughout Central America. Click here to print the recipe.26Issue 03 July 2025

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27Food For The Poorwww.foodforthepoor.orgResources: 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 [email protected]

SUMMER 2025-Issue 3

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