A group of US travelers approached a carpentry business one day during their trip with Rainbow Network. I am not sure what they thought they would see, but I’m certain that their actual experience was unexpected. A coffin – that is what we walked up to. 

In nearly twenty years of traveling to our partner communities, this was a first for me, and I was not quite sure how to explain it. We were at the local church leader’s home, staring awkwardly at a coffin. Can you imagine?

The business owners explained that when someone passes away, the family must travel several kilometers on foot to buy a coffin right away. This is difficult for the family to do, and it is not at all what they want to be doing as they grieve. This group of individuals saw the need their community faced, and they saw an opportunity through our Economic Development program to meet this need. They incorporated a skill passed down from their fathers and grandfathers to create a meaningful business.

In addition to coffins, the group also makes dining tables, chairs, wardrobes, and other necessities for a rural Nicaraguan home.

The carpenters beamed with pride as they shared about their work. They  were overjoyed to have this opportunity to carry on their family’s legacy of craftsmanship. 

While their work is somewhat unconventional, this group has a purpose and they are embracing our mission of sharing in Christ’s love with their neighbors. What a great blessing!

You can help rural Nicaraguans launch small businesses through our Economic Development program! Give online today.

Megan Herrera, President