At 80 years old, Rosa continues to be an inspiring example of perseverance, hard work, and joy. Living deep in the mountainous region of central Honduras, she has faced many challenges. More than 25 years ago, her husband left the family, leaving her alone to raise her family. Despite these hardships, Rosa has a cheerful spirit and a positive outlook.
For more than a decade, Rosa has participated in a SALT Savings Group in her village. Over the years, SALT has provided members with Biblical encouragement, practical teaching, and other opportunities, including a secure way to save money and to lend each other small loans.
Coffee production is the main source of work in Rosa’s region. The coffee harvest season runs from November through February, providing the mountain people with the opportunity to earn a good income. Workers are paid by the bucket of coffee they pick, allowing them to earn two or even three times as much as they do during the rest of the year.
Rosa continues to work diligently, helping pick coffee in her neighbors’ fields. The income she earns during this season helps support her throughout the remainder of the year, when she spends most of her time at home near her children and grandchildren.
Recently, Rosa needed new doors installed on her home. Through her SALT group, she took out a small loan to cover the expense and repaid it with earnings from the coffee harvest. She has also been able to save part of her harvest income to help meet needs during the months when work is scarce.
Rosa says she appreciates the teaching she receives through the group and believes working together to save and provide loans for one another is a valuable way to strengthen the community.
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