Self-Help International

Self-Help International (SHI) works at the grassroots level to improve quality of life and increase the income of rural people by introducing appropriate, sustainable agricultural methods. Founded in 1959, SHI's programs are designed to promote self-reliance with dignity and to create links between farmers and their communities. SHI carries out projects in Ghana and Nicaragua that introduce high protein corn (Quality Protein Maize) to improve crop yields and nutrition. Post-harvest technologies are introduced which include corn cribs, dryers and shellers. SHI's micro-credit project provides opportunities to empower women through its training sessions for effective enterprise management and loans through use of revolving funds.

Self-Help International is dedicated to alleviating hunger and empowering communities to achieve self-sufficiency through sustainable, locally-driven programs. Operating in Ghana and Nicaragua, we focus on five main areas:

1. Economic Empowerment: Through micro-credit loans and business training, we empower women entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses, improving their families' financial stability and contributing to local economies.
2. Agriculture & Food Security: We provide farmers with the tools, training, and resources needed to improve crop yields and food production. Our focus on sustainable agricultural practices helps communities achieve long-term food security.
3. Clean Water & Sanitation: We work to ensure access to clean water and improve sanitation, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases and improving overall health in the communities we serve.
4. Health & Nutrition: We promote health and well-being through nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and initiatives that ensure children and families have access to healthy food.
5. Youth Education & Empowerment: Through our Teen Girls Club and other educational initiatives, we support young people, especially girls, in continuing their education, gaining life skills, and preparing for a brighter future.