Written by
WZZM 13 ONLINE
SPRING LAKE, Mich. (WZZM) -- It's a story that could get you to look at your next "cup of joe" differently - at least that's what one local non-profit group is hoping to do.
A Grand Haven man is leading an effort to connect farmers selling coffee in Honduras to local businesses.
For many of us, coffee is nothing more than a morning boost. But for Andrew Boyd a cup of coffee is anything but simple.
"For us that represents a farmer, his family, and his community, " says Boyd.
Boyd is leading a non-profit group called Union Microfinanza on a mission to connect two worlds - West Michgian businesses and nearly 200 financially struggling farmers in Honduras.
"We're helping them bring their coffee to the U.S and bringing a market to them, " says Boyd.
"They're not selling to big corporations like Maxwell House and Folgers, and they're getting more profits that way, " he says.
The non-profit helps farmers grow, transport, and then roast the coffee at a factory in Spring Lake.
Unlike other importers, Boyd says his group has a permanent presence in Honduras.
"Our staff has lived in Honduras since the day we started and that just brings it to a whole new level," says Boyd.
Boyd hopes the story that follows his non-profit will add an extra flavor to everyone's cup of joe.
"We're looking for people who drink coffee on a daily basis, and letting them know that this is a way they can make a difference, " says Boyd.
Boyd hopes the non-profit eventually sells enough coffee so that it's not dependent on grants and donations.
Reported by Alex Shabad in Spring Lake