Before fleeing, most Rohingya lived in villages and were farmers and gardeners. Much of their food came from plants, trees, and crops. Now, all that has changed.
There aren’t a lot of trees, and people have to travel far distances for any sources of food beyond the rations they receive. And there aren’t any plants outside their shelters.
A specialist from our partner OBAT helped us source a variety of vegetables plants – from beans, eggplants, gourds, and trees, we covered the gamut of possibilities.
We provided plants for 200 shelters! Over time, the plants will grow into vegetables they can harvest, and they’ll provide a little shade for the family. Plus, some greenery will lend a sense of home and normalcy.
“I feel very good getting this,” said one resident, Mobarshara, who lived in the community. She selected the exact place where the plant would be put. She had plants in Myanmar, so she feels a sense of peace being surrounded by them again. Plus, she said, the kids will enjoy them.
It’s just a little change, but the plants symbolize hope. That things can change, that they can return to normal. The seeds are planted – everyone is excited to see them grow.
This idea is dedicated to the memory of Burton Hoag, loving grandpa and father, who valued nature and the earth’s gifts.
