Hoja Verde SA, Ecuador
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My son didn’t know how to use a computer and they didn’t teach him how to at the school he attended. [Hoja Verde] asked the [district] for one hour of class. When they began the course, my son was not at the same level as the other children, but I spoke with the teacher and she helped him until the end of the term. It is great that [Hoja Verde] helps with educational development, even though they are not all [farm workers’] children. It is worth it to invest in this program.
--- Luz Maria Caza, Hoja Verde Worker Hoja Verde is a flower farm located in Cayambe, Ecuador, which has one of the best climates in the world for growing roses due its fertile volcanic soil. The Cayambe area is the center of Ecuador’s flower industry and is home to many indigenous people, some of whom trace their ancestry to the Kayambi people who fought against the Incas. The farm is family owned and has been Fair Trade Certified(TM) since 2002. Currently, Hoja Verde produces over 60 varieties of roses.
The Fair Trade premium has enabled workers at Hoja Verde to establish various social and productive programs.
Education:
Hoja Verde's Joint Body uses part of its Fair Trade premium to maintain and support the Convenio Escuela Nasacota Puento, which serves 380 children in total including 90 teens and 28 children of farm workers. In addition to providing the school with materials and financial support, premiums have funded computer classes for all students.
Credit Program:
The Joint Body used Fair Trade premiums to fund a microcredit program where farm workers may obtain loans at one percent interest for purchasing land or a home, which is a lifelong dream for many. Since April 2007, $245,000 has been invested back into the community through this program.
Health:
A portion of the Fair Trade premium for Hoja Verde flowers supports medical services for specialized preventative care and urgent care. Children and youth who attend school may receive a refund for medicine, which also includes vitamins. The refund is 85 percent of funds paid, maxing out at 60 dollars. This project includes vaccinations, benefiting 100 workers and 150 children. |
Fair Trade Cocoa & Fresh Flowers and Plants 
