The light

“We decided to pursue chicken farming because it will give us the best returns in the shortest period of time and there is always a demand,” said David Smikle, president of the MHCDC. “Most of the people here just need a start. Many of them are unemployed, but they want to support themselves, so we believe this is a viable solution.”

Support for the initiative came late last year from the Desnoes and Geddes (D&G) Foundation, which made a $100,000 donation through its ‘100 For A Century’ centennial celebrations campaign. The MHCDC was among 56 beneficiaries selected through a partnership withThe Gleaner that received a share of $5.6 million.

“I’ve lived in the community all my life, and many people have found it difficult to get jobs in the community over the years, and only a few households have been able to provide for themselves. This opportunity will allow 25 residents to engage in entrepreneurial agribusiness and pave the way for them to establish profitable enterprises.

The funds will be used to buy chickens, chicken feed and feeding pans for them to start chicken farms in their very own backyards,” said Smikle.

Training seminars

The development committee has already begun training farmers in a series of seminars through a partnership with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority.

This will equip participants with the required expertise to start and maintain their farms using best practices. Chickens raised by the farmers will be sold to businesses within the community and surrounding neighbourhoods.

“We wanted to identify community projects that would significantly enhance the lives of the residents and we believe that the Broiler Chicken Production initiative will do just that.

“This programme is a tool of empowerment and will encourage community members to take charge of their destiny in a pragmatic way that is sustainable,” noted Dianne Ashton-Smith, board member of the D&G Foundation.

Among the beneficiaries is 57-year-old Mary Elwood, who was born and raised in the community. She anticipates great rewards from participating in the initiative.

“This opportunity will allow me to generate much-needed income while giving me the freedom to establish my business how I see fit.

I hope to discover my passion in this process and do something that I love.

I also look forward to working from home because I will be able to spend time with my family and take care of my children and grandchildren,” said Elwood.