GROW 2023 Impact Report

In a world where access to education and healthcare remains a key challenge in banana growing communities, we are committed to combatting this through the GROW Program. In this impact report, we highlight the transformative work undertaken in Mexico and Ecuador, where dedicated initiatives are changing lives and fostering brighter futures.

Mexico: Empowering Scholars, Strengthening Communities

Scholarship Efforts:

In 2023 our scholarship program supported 89 scholars, spanning from primary school through university education.

In conjunction with Project Amigo, the program supported students through comprehensive scholarships in the form of tuition, school supplies, educational assistance centers, homework clubs, tutoring, enrichment activities, and healthcare services not otherwise available.

In 2023, apart from the aforementioned, GROW Scholars received:

·         Psychological counseling support as needed for scholars and their families.

·         Workshops on life skills for junior high through college students.

·         New pairs of shoes for elementary school students.

·         Dental cleaning and dental work as needed.

·         Eye tests and glasses as needed.

Notably, 95% of scholars completed the 2022-2023 school year and progressed to the next grade. We had 15 graduates:

·         7 completed elementary school and continued to junior high.

·         4 finished junior high

·         2 students graduated high school and are now enrolled in college.

·         2 scholars graduated with a college degree

Casa Amiga:

Casa Amiga was created as the answer to a question posed by a Project Amigo board member, “how are these girls going to be able to safely attend the University of Colima if they do not have a safe place to stay?” Today, Casa Amiga stands as a beacon of safety and support for university scholars, offering lodging, meals, internet access, tutoring, and guidance, ensuring that students can pursue higher education without barriers.

For students from remote areas, Casa Amiga is indispensable, eliminating the obstacles of travel and expense associated with attending university.

New GROW Center:

The GROW Center serves as a vital resource hub for students and community members alike, offering counseling, guidance, and educational support. It is where people come to receive guidance and escape the day-to-day insecurity that is ever present in the area.

At the GROW Center you’ll see:

·         Weekly homework clubs

·         Students using the computer lab

·         Internet access

·         Books

·         Elementary and summer school programming

·         Medical outreach

·         Nutrition counseling

And more…

The pandemic brought to light the fact that the community had outgrown the original GROW Center. 2023 saw the success of the newly launched GROW Education Center which is nearly twice the size of the previous building. This new GROW Education Center signals to the community our long-term commitment.

Health Efforts:

Our health initiatives in our communities in Mexico focus on addressing social-emotional issues, bullying, anxiety, and pregnancy prevention through workshops and outreach programs.

Additionally, essential medical equipment and aids are distributed to community members in need, ensuring access to basic healthcare services.

Books & Supplies:

Every year, GROW donates books and supplies to support growing minds. Many of these books are available at the GROW Center while supplemental books are distributed at local schools. These distributions are a school year highlight for students, many of whom have never owned a book of their own. The books are especially treasured and can be the key to children discovering a lifelong love of reading.

Ecuador: Nurturing Health & Well-Being

In Ecuador, our Medical Services Program provides essential healthcare services, medicines, and referrals to children and adolescents.

Nutritional support and education initiatives aim to combat malnutrition and promote healthy lifestyles among children and teenagers while health festivals serve as platforms for education and awareness, promoting preventive healthcare measures within communities.

In conjunction with Children International, in 2023 we were able to provide:

·         Over 7,000 dental exams

·         Nearly 16,000 telehealth consultations

·         Nearly 4,000 medical exams

Moreover, caregivers receive training to optimize their use of healthcare services, fostering sustainability and empowerment within communities.

Transforming Lives, Building Futures

Through dedicated efforts in Mexico and Ecuador, we witness the profound impact of education and healthcare initiatives on individuals and communities. From scholarships that empower students to healthcare programs that nurture well-being, each endeavor contributes to a brighter and healthier future for all. As we reflect on our achievements, we remain committed to the journey of transformation and empowerment, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

A huge THANK YOU to our retailers, our distributors, and our shoppers. It is thanks to YOU that we can make this a reality.