Alfredo Barnabe is National Program Coordinator for Heifer International, Mexico. He says that, “Heifer has collaborated with Puente since 2008 and approved a $25,000 US grant to improve the quality of life of marginal families in the Mixteca region of Oaxaca. Heifer recognizes Puente as a partner and strategic ally whose work is fundamental to offering appropriate alternatives to the current conditions and needs of rural Oaxacan families.”

“We greatly value this relationship, based on the values of transparency and mutual responsibility that both Puente and Heifer share. Heifer places great importance on the way organizations relate to the communities in which they operate- and Puente stands out for its approach to community development through participation and autonomy and its commitment to agro-ecological grain production and food sovereignty.”

“Despite the difficult conditions in the Mixteca region, Puente has delivered tangible results that are expressed in the very attitudes and responses from local families. Community outlook and self-belief in their capabilities have been greatly enhanced through workshops dedicated to the nutritional and economic value of amaranth as a crop. We consider that the possibilities are even greater, and the need for continued work ever more important, in the current economic crisis.”

“Heifer’s vision, based on the spirit of sharing, has permeated not just the Puente team, but also the communities and families who they work with. These families have been able to “pass on the gift” of resources and knowledge to other families in similar conditions. Indeed, the benefits accrued to families living in the most difficult economic conditions have begun to spread and multiply under Puente’s support”.