By Jeffrey Lee
Our partnership with Poraka began soon after we arrive in Macedonia. Poraka is a group home for adults with developmental delays. As of now they have 105 residents. We have worked them over the years to provide clothing, food and furniture. We have partnered with them to provide some social and educational engagement. Jeff taught English classes. Alicia has provided therapeutic support. Recently we built some large greenhouses and chicken barns for them. Earlier this year they came to us and the Food Bank of Macedonia about a potential partnership to grow our agricultural development. We bought a vineyard.
We worked with them this year to cultivate and nurture the vineyard. It was a great learning experience for all of us. And in September we harvested 13 tons of grapes. It was very hard work, but it was so rewarding. We learned so much and we are now planning to expand the vineyards for next year.
The work Poraka is a Macedonian word that means “The Message.” They picked this name because they had a message for society that people with disabilities can live in community and participate. They have value. Over the past 16 years they have shared that message with those around them.
That grapes are sold to big processors, and the proceeds go back to Poraka and the Food Bank to meet the needs of the people that they serve. We decided that the name of the new vineyards will be “A Message in a Bottle” because we have a message for everyone that we can work and make a difference in the lives of people that are too often forgotten or cast out by society.
Peace be the Journey.