History
In 1944, Dan West began to outline a simple but groundbreaking plan to tackle hunger worldwide. West, a Midwestern farmer and member of the Brethren Church, had recently returned from feeding exhausted refugees while volunteering in the Spanish Civil War.
He saw firsthand that providing food to people was a short-term solution, while providing them with animals provided them with a steady supply of nourishing food for an entire family.
His philosophy continues to inspire Heifer’s work to this day. In partnership with farmers across a range of different livestock and crops, we create unique solutions to local challenges. Together, we build inclusive and resilient economies, so that societies can develop effective ways to end world hunger and poverty in a sustainable way.
These days, Heifer International generally provides animals to participating families through local channels in the countries we serve. But early on, the organization shipped livestock from the United States to other countries. During their travels, these animals were cared for by “marine cowboys”: ranchers and farmers who helped Heifer in her mission by lending their expertise in animal husbandry and farming.
The Seagoing Cowboys: A Part of Heifer History
In the years following World War II, more than 7,000 men and women accompanied shipments of cattle, pigs, goats and other livestock across land, sea and air to deliver them to families in Europe. For many of them, these trips presented a series of firsts — the first time setting sail on a ship, the first time crossing the ocean and the first time visiting another culture. For many of these seagoing cowboys, their faith was tested as they witnessed the devastation of the war, but came away with a renewed sense of hope and purpose after helping families in need.
Heifer International was born from that simple idea of empowerment, and for 75 years the organization has worked tirelessly to give families a hand up, rather than just a handout.
Explore the history of Heifer International and see how donors like you have helped bring over 34 million families out of poverty.
Missions
We work to end hunger and poverty in partnership with the communities we serve. Our programs support entrepreneurs around the world, creating lasting change from the ground up.
It begins with a seed investment of livestock or agriculture, followed by mentorship to help project participants build a business, and ultimately to gain access to supply chains and markets.
These families are able to earn a living income and continuously lift up their communities as they train the next generation of leaders.
By supporting and training the world’s farmers, ranchers, and female business owners, we’re investing in a new breed of success.
Our community development model focuses on building social capital by increasing income and assets within farming families, improving their food security and nutrition, and protecting the environment – with women’s empowerment and connected communities at the very center.
CONTACT DETAILS
Heifer International
1 World Avenue
Little Rock, AR 72202
USA
855.9HUNGER (855.948.6437)