Heifer International Calls for Action on Climate Resilience in Wake of Tropical Depression Sara in Honduras

"The damage this storm will have on the lives and livelihoods of rural population across Central America underscores the urgency of bold climate action," said Oscar Castañeda, Heifer's senior vice president of Americas programs. "This year's COP29 discussions in Baku must prioritize the adaptation and resiliency needs of rural farmers, whose contributions to global food security and local economies are critical and cannot be overlooked."

Storms are one of many climate-related risks that threaten smallholder farmers, who produce up to 80% of the food in low- and middle-income countries and are particularly vulnerable during crises due to a lack of access to financial safety nets and their livelihood's dependence on fragile ecosystems. In Central America, for example, Tropical Depression Sara follows a prolonged drought, which has led to widespread crop failures and increasing rates of hunger and poverty.

In Central America, Heifer International is working with local partners to assess the damage and provide immediate relief to affected families. In Honduras, over 3,200 houses have been destroyed and almost 1,800 farming communities are currently cut off from communication due to damaged infrastructure. In rural agricultural communities where Heifer Honduras works, significant losses of beehives, corn, beans and livestock have been reported. Beyond initial aid, the organization is committed to long-term resilience-building measures for smallholders, including:

About Heifer International

Since 1944, Heifer International has worked with more than 52 million people around the world to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way, while caring for the Earth. Heifer currently operates in 19 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, including the United States, supporting farmers and food producers to strengthen local economies and build secure livelihoods that provide a living income. For more information, visit https://www.heifer.org. 

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