Newsletter - January, 2016
| January, 2016 Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me." Matt. 25:40 Published by the Society of the Good Shepherd, P. O. Box 122, Amberson, PA 17210. (717) 349-7033 |
Melvin Machado had worked as a welder for many years. However, he and his family had struggled for years to make ends meet. So in February, 2015 Melvin decided to go back to school to learn a new trade. In fact, his wife Doris decided to go back to school and finish her education as well. But this meant that they had to find a part-time job or business to support the two of them and their teenage son while they are in school. After careful consideration and encouragement from people around them, they decided to start a home business. They had two possible businesses in mind, but they eventually decided on making and selling Honduran “enchilada tortillas.” In Honduras, an enchilada is different from what is called an enchilada in Mexico or in the United States. A Honduran enchilada is what is known in Tex-Mex cuisine as a chalupa. In some places in the U.S., these are called tostadas. A Honduran enchilada is made from a corn tortilla that has been fried golden crisp. This flat, crisp tortilla is then topped with tomato sauce, ground meat, cheese, shredded cabbage, tomatoes, and other items. They are a very popular dish in Honduras. However, most busy housewives prefer to purchase “enchilada tortillas” that have already been fried. This way, they only have to add the toppings.
So the Machados saw a business opportunity here. However, they needed a small business loan to get set up. So they applied to the Society of the Good Shepherd. The board of directors in Siguatepeque did a background check on the Machados and met with their pastor. They learned that the Machados have a good reputation both spiritually and in handling their finances. So the directors approved the loan. 
With the loan, the Machados were able to buy a tortilla making machine, various kitchen utensils, plastic bags, stickers, and enough other items to get their business off the ground. It took only a few weeks, to confirm that this was a good business choice. Within a month or so they were making and selling 200 tortillas a week, working only part time. They sell their bags of “enchilada tortillas” to neighborhood mini-marts and to individuals and businesses that pre-order a large quantity. Melvin, Doris and their son all work together to make and deliver the tortillas. Their business continues to grow. In fact, right now they aren’t able to keep up with the demand due to their school responsibilities. So they are looking to hire someone to help with the work load.
Although the original idea was that this would be a temporary business until they finished school, they now plan to continue the business once they graduate. Who knows—this may end up being Marvin’s new profession! Please pray for this family as they work hard to provide for their own material needs as well as continuing to serve Christ.
The Society of the Good Shepherd, P. O. Box 122, Amberson, PA 17210 • (717) 349-7033
Click on the following link if you would care to make a donation to the work in Honduras: Donations
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