The Third Seeds of Hope Maize Harvest

I’m excited to share an update about our third Seeds of Hope maize harvest in Bungoma, Kenya. While it came with its challenges, it also brought hope and sustenance to families who needed it most.

This season, we were able to plant and harvest one field of maize, which will provide food for about 50 families in the village. While this is less than previous years—when we planted three fields—the yield from this single field was better than before. This shows the incredible impact we can make, even with limited resources, and it’s all thanks to your support.

The reality is that fewer fields were planted because we raised less money during our last fundraising drive. However, every single dollar you gave made a difference. The harvested maize is already transforming lives in Bungoma, ensuring that families have food on their plates.

To show just how meaningful your donations are, I want to share two powerful stories from Patrick Wesonga, who has been helping distribute the maize.

A Mother’s Gratitude

Patrick shared this moving experience:

“One day, my mum and I were deeply moved when a mentally challenged woman arrived at our home with her young son on her back. She asked for water and food, and we gave her what she requested. Little did I know about her heartbreaking story. She had been married, but her husband abandoned her when she became pregnant, leaving her for another spouse.

Despite her challenges, the woman spoke fluent English and beautiful Swahili. When I asked if she was able to cook for herself in her home, she assured me that she could. So, we shared some of the harvested maize that was drying under the sun. She expressed her gratitude and left with a peaceful smile on her face.”

This mother’s story reminds us why Seeds of Hope exists—to provide food security and bring dignity to those who have been forgotten or left behind.

Feeding the Hungry

Another story from Patrick highlights the urgency of our efforts:

“A week ago, another elderly woman came to our home. Without hesitation, she began washing her hands in a basin outside. She then asked for 'Ugali' and maize, but unfortunately, we had not yet harvested. We shared the porridge we had prepared for lunch, and she was so grateful and happy. It was clear she was very hungry.

Feeling her need, I decided to pluck some maize directly from the stalks and gave it to her to feed herself and her children. Moments like these remind us of the importance of sharing what little we have to help others in need.

These stories reflect the harsh reality of poverty in Bungoma, but they also shine a light on the power of compassion and generosity. Through your support of Seeds of Hope, you’re not only providing food—you’re giving hope to people like this mother and elderly woman who might otherwise go hungry.

As we look ahead to 2024, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in this mission. Together, we’re changing lives, one harvest at a time.

To learn more about our projects and stay updated on our progress, please visit www.charliecaresfoundation.com. You can also sign up for our newsletter there to get the latest news about upcoming campaigns, like my January cookie and brownie sale and the t-shirts and posters I’ll be offering this spring!

Thank you again for making this harvest possible, and for giving so much hope to families in Bungoma. Wishing you a joyful and prosperous New Year!

With gratitude,

Charlie