Developing small businesses for pastors in Nepal and Cuba is one of the key elements of what we do at TREC. It is very easy to develop relationships with international pastors and provide them financial support on an ongoing basis, but in doing this we create what you’d describe as “Christian Welfare.” These pastors and their families become dependent on financial support from the US. If something happens to the organization that is supporting them, then they are in big financial trouble. We do not want the pastors we work with to be dependent on TREC; we want them to depend upon the Lord. We develop small businesses for them and teach them good business principles so they have a way to support their families and ministries for many generations.
I remember one of our first livelihood projects was a small provisional store in Nepal. The pastor started with one store and now has five, and TREC has not sent him a dime for over 12 years because God is meeting his needs through these stores.
I share this with you because there are 3 new small businesses we need your help with. These businesses can be very pivotal in the growth of ministry and support for families.
Project 1: Havana Pig Farm
Cost of project: $17,000
This includes the construction of pig barns, 70 pigs, feed for one year, and one year’s salaries for 5 men. On this property, we will all be raising crops. Potential profits per year are over $15,000. Consider that the average salary is less than $50/month, and you see that this farm has the potential to make a huge impact in Cuba.
Project 2: Video/Photography Business
Cost of Project: $7,500
Our lead translators name is Manuel and is very gifted in photography, videography and editing. He already has started a business with make-shift equipment, but we would like to get him up-to-date with a current laptop, editing software, camera, and lenses.
Project 3: Sancti Spiritus Hostel Project
Cost of project: $71,500
Sancti Spiritus is a quaint little village where many tourists travel. It is also a place that the Lord has to lead us to minister. Tourists stay in hostels, and this is an awesome business to support the work in Sancti Spiritus. It will employ local Christians and also give our teams a safe place to stay.
I am praying that the $96,000 needed to make the above happen will be provided by the end of the year.
We need your help to make these businesses a reality and to finish our year strong with year-end giving to our General Fund. Guys, your going, giving, and praying is making a huge difference. Thanks for all you do!
Jeff McFarland
