Meet Emerita. When her husband passed away 18 years ago, Emerita was heartbroken and had to raise her children alone. She is now 60 years old and a lifelong farmer with humble beginnings in the mountains and no formal education. Emerita relies on the family trade of copra (the dried meat of the coconut used to make refined coconut oil) production and fishing to sustain her family. However, It is challenging to find security with the ever changing environment and there is often a lack of work. To add to this, her youngest daughter fell seriously ill and had to be hospitalized.
Emerita started selling her coconuts to Dignity which helped her family, until super typhoon Tisoy came unexpectedly in 2019, destroying much of her crop. She was devastated. She longed to be able to continue feeding her family, sending her children to school, and helping them achieve their dreams. But, without money from the business, it seemed impossible. Emerita was shocked when Dignity offered to help through relief groceries, new coconut tree saplings, and cash assistance.
With help, she made it through and was able to continue the family farm. Dignity's fair trade practices allowed her to sell her coconuts and receive immediate payment, which was a significant help in difficult times. Now, Emerita is able to continue caring for her family and helping her children give back to the community.
