More than 130 volunteers from the Church of God gathered at Hacienda La Guadalupe in Jayuya, Puerto Rico, to support local coffee farmer Vidal Irizarry Pabón. Working together, they harvested 1,010 pounds of ripe coffee beans in a single day. The event was part of the Church’s global “Hold Hope” campaign, which supports small farmers facing labor shortages and celebrates World Food Day 2025.
With dedication and teamwork, the volunteers saved a portion of the coffee harvest that might have been lost due to a lack of workers. Their service helped protect both the livelihood of local farmers and the deep cultural roots of Puerto Rican coffee farming. Through their efforts, they brought encouragement and hope to families who depend on agriculture for their living.
Inspiring Community and Preserving Heritage
The volunteers raised awareness about Puerto Rico’s agricultural challenges while showing that unity and compassion can make a difference. Pierrette Fraticelli shared, “For me, it was very special to be here helping on this farm and picking coffee. My grandparents had a coffee farm in Ponce called Finca La Mocha, but I never had the chance to experience it myself. It was emotional because I think farming runs in my family. There is also a great need in Puerto Rico. Many coffee beans are lost because there are not enough workers or volunteers to harvest them. So, it was an amazing experience to serve the community and show love through this work.”
Farmer Vidal Irizarry Pabón also expressed his gratitude. “This community work has a great impact. It has helped me and other farmers in my situation, and this effort is truly remarkable. The youth are fighting to return to farming and be that link of support. We are very grateful to the Church of God for volunteering when we arrived here. We are deeply grateful. I have no way to express my gratitude. Thank you.”
The day’s work supported the local harvest and encouraged a new generation to value Puerto Rico’s farming heritage. By uniting hearts and hands, the volunteers showed that sincere service can restore hope.
To view more volunteer events, click here.