FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2011
Widows and orphans to benefit through sustainable agriculture
Eugene, OR, June 7, 2011 - India Partners recently collaborated with an agency in India to complete phase one of construction on a self-sufficient emu farm in Andhra Pradesh that will support an orphanage, poor widows and impoverished families in remote villages.
India Partners (www.IndiaPartners.org) helped purchase one acre of land and 100 emus with a $46,300 private foundation grant. The land was cleared and prepared for the birds, which were brought to the farm in April 2011. The emus will begin their first laying season in October 2011, with the birds expected to produce six eggs per emu pair, and a minimum of 150 hatched chicks. As the birds fully mature, each pair will produce up to 25 eggs per season. Initially, the farm will sell the chicks, and eventually raise the birds for their meat, skin, bones, feathers and oil, with proceeds benefiting the poor in nearby villages.
India Partners will launch the emu farm with a three-year plan:
To complete construction of the emu farm, India Partners is requesting donations to help meet the total project cost of $94,495. So far $50,285 has been donated, with $44,210 still needed. One emu costs $175, but gifts of any amount are encouraged. To donate to India Partners’ Emu Project, visit www.IndiaPartners.org, or call 1-877-87-INDIA.
Photos are available upon request.
About India Partners:
India Partners works alongside a broad group of indigenous faith-based grassroots agencies in India focused on alleviating poverty and injustice. India Partners believes in helping the people of India help themselves, regardless of caste, religion, gender or creed. We seek support from others who share our passion to empower change.
Contact: Brent Hample
Tel: 541.683.0696
Email: info@indiapartners.org