After a long journey along a rugged, winding road, we arrived in the remote community of Dulce Nombre, nestled in the municipality of Marcala, Honduras. Life here is not easy—most families live in poverty, many in extreme poverty—but what greeted us was not hardship. It was warmth.
A group of women welcomed us with radiant smiles and a table beautifully laid with fresh vegetables from their own gardens. Their pride was unmistakable. With enthusiasm, they shared what they had learned through their work with Nery Dominguez from Asociación Solidaridad – one of the groups supported by Kenoli Foundation.
These women have gained the skills to grow their own food—corn, beans, tomatoes, onions, beets, carrots—transforming steep, rolling hillsides into thriving gardens. It is demanding work, but it has brought meaningful change. By cultivating their own crops, they can now provide their children with nutritious meals without relying on costly trips to the marketplace.
Beyond growing food, they have also learned how to prepare it in ways their children enjoy—an essential step in improving family nutrition. For families whose children once struggled with malnutrition and low weight, this knowledge has been life-changing. With guidance from Nery, they are now making nourishing cereals, healthy drinks, and balanced meals that are helping their children regain strength and vitality.
Little Jordan in this photo was once malnourished and has now recovered, thanks to the program
The transformation extends beyond the kitchen and garden. Community workshops on gender, masculinity, alcoholism, and domestic violence have sparked a profound cultural shift. Women shared that they now feel empowered to speak up, while men are increasingly embracing their roles in childcare and household responsibilities. It is a powerful and hopeful change.
Nery (on the left), speaking with mothers and fathers in San Martin.
Through the dedication of Nery and Asociación Solidaridad, these communities are building more than skills—they are building resilience. Equipped to face challenges, including those brought by an unpredictable climate, families are becoming more self-sufficient and confident in their future.
In Dulce Nombre and San Martin, hope is taking root—and growing strong!