farming programs
why farming?
Nearly three-fourths of Nicaragua's population lives on less than $2 per day. This poverty is highly concentrated in northwestern Nicaragua, one of the hottest and driest regions in Central America.
Through the introduction of solar-powered irrigation, fertilizer, hybrid seeds, insect control, and educational programs for farmers, Helping Kids Round First has helped put more food on the table for families in the region.
Helping Kids Round First supports 9 farming communities in the Somoto and Somotillo regions of northwestern Nicaragua. At each, the community works together to farm a shared piece of land. At harvest, each participating worker brings home a portion of the crop for their family. A portion of the crop is saved for future use by the community and some is sold to cover the cost of inputs (seeds, fertilizer, pesticide) for future years. With this method, communities are able to supplement often meager diets improving their nutrition and achieve self-sustainability.
HOW?
Helping Kids Round First volunteers, led by Scott Ramsdell of Dakota Layers, work directly with local farming families and agronomists to teach modern agricultural techniques that can be implemented successfully in Nicaragua's harsh climate to produce more food for local families. Yields have increased dramatically in corn, bean, and vegetable crops both in irrigated and dry land fields.
IRRIGATED CROP YIELDS
In 100 lb bushels
10
Average beginning corn yield
50-70
After 1 year w/ HKRF assistance
100-120
After 2 years w/ HKRF Assistance
130-140
After 3 years w/HKRF Assistance
Farming programs
Empowering Communities Through Farming
In the heart of rural Nicaragua, amidst the fields where dreams of baseball games once flourished, a new kind of hope has taken root. What began as a mission to deliver baseball equipment to underserved communities has blossomed into a transformative farming initiative, led by the vision and dedication of Craig Severtson, the CEO, and Founder of Helping Kids Round First. This journey of growth and empowerment has touched the lives of not just children but entire families, fostering sustainable development and resilience in Chinandega and Somoto.The story begins with a simple yet profound realization: delivering baseball supplies was just the first step. Upon visiting these communities, Craig Severtson discovered a pressing need that extended beyond the baseball field—families struggling to afford food and sustain themselves. This revelation sparked the inception of farming projects aimed at addressing food insecurity and empowering families to cultivate a brighter future.
What started as support for one farm has now blossomed into a network of over 30 families benefitting from Helping Kids Round First's initiatives. Central to these efforts are the global kits provided to farmers, containing essential tools for agricultural success. From seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals to irrigation systems and training sessions, every aspect is meticulously designed to empower farmers with the knowledge and resources they need.
It's important to note that everything is done by hand, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the farmers involved. From plowing the fields to harvesting the crops, each step is a testament to their resilience and commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods. The digging of wells further underscores this commitment, ensuring families have access to water not only for themselves but also for their crops, laying the foundation for a thriving agricultural ecosystem.
The impact of these farming projects extends far beyond individual households. Through successful harvests, families not only secure food for their loved ones but also contribute to a community seed bank, ensuring future sustainability and resilience. Additionally, surplus crops are sold, providing families with extra income and bolstering local economies.
What makes these initiatives truly remarkable is the holistic approach taken by Helping Kids Round First. It's not just about providing resources; it's about empowering communities to take charge of their own futures. The training sessions offered equip farmers with valuable skills and knowledge, empowering them to become self-sufficient and resilient in the face of challenges.
As we reflect on this journey of growth and empowerment, it's clear that the impact goes beyond the fields and farms. It's about nurturing hope, fostering resilience, and building a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. Helping Kids Round First has not only delivered on its mission to support communities but has also sown the seeds of change and empowerment, inspiring us all to believe in the power of compassion and collective action.
Take a look at what we've done so far
TESTIMONIALS
The project has come to innovate and it has been great for the economy of our families and food security of the children.
We are very grateful for the help, even despite the pandemic, thank you so much for being here!
Claudia Guillén, community resident
Helping Kids Round First supports families in the most vulnerable communities in Nicaragua with the production of basic crops to improve their nutrition and diet. They've taught us new ways to grow food and motivated us to work together as a community to create better opportunities for our families.
Maryan Alvarez, Local Agronomist
Improving lives through baseball
Every year we bring baseball equipment and provide instruction to youth in rural Nicaraguan communities. Baseball has a unique ability to both bring together different cultures and teach life lessons helping to provide a foundation on which to improve lives.
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