It is amazing to think of the longevity of ECHO's ministry! More than 30 years ago ECHO started networking with development workers and missionaries overseas. Many of them received free packets of seeds that are now not even rare in the areas where they were working! This makes us smile! Here is another local and more recent example of the impact of a few trees.

Background: Community Cooperative Ministries Incorporated (CCMI) manages a number ofservices helping the poor in our community. Soup kitchens, food pantries, meals-on-wheels and their montessori preschool are only a few of the ways that they impact our community. When the opportunity came to make a lasting impact on their ministry, the answer was an easy "Yes!"

Fast forward three years, and Cindy Venezia, montessori director, has this to say:

"Three years ago you donated and planted 10 fruit trees at our preschool.  With the exception of two that were lost to the frost, we are proud to say the rest produced their first big batch of fruit this month!  The children have taken such good care of the trees which is surprising seeing how the branches are hanging at their eye level (they are ages 2-5!).  Thank you so much for this gift that is going to give and give! 

I’m not sure if you heard that shortly after the trees and garden were added to our school we started a “business”.  Beelicious Foods. We eat the food, cook with it, let the children take it home, donate it to our choice market (food pantry) or sell it to visitors.  Fifty percent of the money that is earned from the sale of the food and crafts is donated to a local charity.  We have given to United Way and ACT.  Again, we truly appreciate all that you did for us!"

ECHO wants to thank everyone who supports our ministry so that we can be part of incredible programs like this! 

To learn more about CCMI visit www.CCMILeeCounty.com