We ventured out into rural Burundi as a family last weekend to make early payments to the coffee farmers who are delivering coffee cherries to the new washing station. For weeks, the farmers have been delivering their coffee cherries to collection points we’ve set up near their communities. It’s one of the reasons you’ve heard so little from us, we’ve been busy building the station and organising community coffee delivery to the station. Coffee is one of the few ways these communities make money, and most farmers have to wait until October or as late as December to see any money from their hard work.
Last year, the average coffee farmer in Burundi earned $133 for the entire year. We are trying to change that number for the better in a number of empowering ways. Giving farmers an early payment for the coffee cherries that they have delivered to the Long Miles washing station not only builds trust with the community but it also allows farmers the opportunity to have some funds to get them through the lean months until full payment arrives towards the end of the year.
Each farmer has a card detailing how much coffee they have delivered to the station so far. 
Goat brochettes anyone? 
^ Hello! This guy had me at first glance. The minute I saw him I knew I had to find a way to photograph him. 
There is always a crowd. 
We were busy checking out a pig (in the wooden cage to the right) while farmer payday got underway. 
Getting organized.
All tuckered out. Thanks for the photo, Coffee Guy, because one of my goals is to get IN FRONT of the camera more so that my boys remember I was there!
Love these pics (and the update!) Good to hear from you again!
Kristy, I also love seeing you in one of the pictures. ;)
Being in images is not my favorite, Dawn… but I have been thinking about how meaningful documenting our history is and my kids need to know I was THERE!
Lovely pictures!
I’m really proud and thankful to be contributing a tiny little bit.
Thanks.
Thanks Ruth! We are so grateful for all your hard work here in Burundi! ; )
These are such beautiful pictures! Thanks for sharing. I need to get some of your coffee!
Sweetheart, I love seeing you in the pictures, too. I always took the pictures and
hated to have my picture taken. I’m glad you are making an effort to be in some.
I love what you are doing. Keep up the good work. Love, Mom
Early payday – what a fantastic slice of hope that must give! Looking forward to seeing you soon!
This is a beautiful post with wonderful photos!
Inspiring project – I’ll be following your updates. Thank you so much for your hospitality to Lauren.