Producer Profiles

Finca La Buena Vida

Finca La Buena Vida is a banana farm located in the Urabá region of Colombia. The organization was formed in 1986 by six farmers during one of the country’s most violent periods and decade-long civil war. Today, the region is relatively peaceful and communities are rebuilding, but there is still significant activity by drug traffickers. Legitimate employment, which offers workers and their families a real chance to escape poverty, is vital to keep the youth out of the drug trade in this community. Fair Trade premiums guarantee a just price for farmers’ product and provide much needed development projects and education.
 

Quotable

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Fair Trade is about hope and about visible, measurable impact. Jorge Anaya’s family demonstrates how dreams can become reality. In July 2009, Jorge shared these pictures of his new home, his family and their new baby girl (asleep on his wife’s lap). He said, “My house fills me with a lot of joy. I didn’t have a lot of resources, but now I have a lot of motivation and I’m very happy. Work is better nowv that I know there is all of this support through Fair Trade.  ”

Jorge Anaya, Buena Vista Farm worker
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Through Fair Trade, I’ve been able to reach my goals. My children’s education has been improved thanks to the financial aid Fair Trade premiums make possible. I’ve also been able to continue my course of study in environmental development which makes me very happy.  ”

Worker at Buena Vida Farm
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We are very thankful for everything Finca La Buena Vida and Fair Trade offers us. We are now able to pursue a higher education and grow intellectually and personally each day. We are also grateful for [the recreation program] that breaks up the monotony of the day and allows us to clear our minds. Fair Trade has made it so each person feels supported. In very little time, our Fair Trade Program has made us feel capable of fulfilling our dreams and goals.  ”

Erika and Paulina Gutiérrez, Worker's Children

Programs

Student Scholarships

Buena Vida’s workers and their families benefit from scholarships funded by the Fair Trade premium. School fees are covered and adults are given scholarships to take vocational classes or pursue a higher degree. In order to keep their scholarships, children of workers must maintain good grades. Workers and wives of workers are awarded secondary education and vocational school scholarships.

Home Improvement Loans

With Fair Trade premiums, Buena Vida workers can access low interest loans to improve their homes or become first time home owners.