Our Pig Farming Program aims to increase families’ overall income and ensure that they can sustainably support their children’s education and well-being. We hope the families can earn a profit of CNY 5,000 to 8,000 [USD 700 to 1,120] per year from the pig business.
One of our beneficiaries is Jizi Wuguo, and we recently conducted a routine visit to her home to see her progress. On the way there, we were led by the village group leader to a rusty iron gate surrounded by brick walls. Inside, Jizi’s courtyard was tidy and well-kept while chickens pecked at the ground, drizzled with scattered grain, a pig lazily lounging in the pen, and several goats helping themselves with grass. These are not only animals to the Wuguo family, but they are also their livelihood.
Jizi welcomed us with a warm smile and welcomed us into her home. There, she opened up to us. Apart from the livestock that we saw outside, her family also relies on growing sugarcane. With four young children, the burden of daily living and educational expenses is heavy, even though tuition fees are relatively low for now. Managing household chores and raising the children leaves Jizi constantly busy and under significant pressure.
Although she still has money troubles, she expressed utmost gratitude towards us for giving her another stream of income. When we checked, the two piglets we gave her were resting well in a well-maintained pig pen. At the beginning, each weighed around 25 jin (15kg), and now they are 50 jin (30kg) each!
Jizi credits her success in raising them to her training. Because of it she learned that the pigs must be fed a day thrice with soaked feed, cornmeal, and wild greens. They must also be given fresh spring water for cleaning and drinking. Every month, there must be a routine disinfection using quicklime to prevent bacteria and virus-causing sickness. When needed, she uses antibiotics and closely observes the pigs for any signs of diarrhea.
Jizi proudly stated, “I will strictly follow the training methods and raise these pigs well. Once they are sold, I’ll buy beautiful new clothes for the children and save for their tuition. I want them to go to university one day, leave these mountains, and help others—just like you’ve helped us.”
We left Jizi’s property completely moved. We may have only provided her with knowledge and two piglets, but to her, she received brand new hope that the world does not forget about lives like hers. As we left her home, her sincere “Ka sha sha” (“thank you” in Yi language) echoed in our hearts—fueling us to do more of what we do for as many lives as possible.
Our Partners
Be a Part of the Solution
By supporting the Pig Farming Program, you help provide crucial training, resources, and sustainable income opportunities for families in need.
Empower them today.
