Give a Sense of Shear Joy

By Jay Jackson

October 3, 2019

Last Updated: December 19, 2017

A flock of sheep with a snowy background.

As one of the earliest domesticated agricultural animals, sheep have a deep, rooted connection with the development of human civilization. For centuries, mankind has relied on many different breeds of sheep for textiles, milk, grazing, and myriad other uses. Even today, sheep are an important part of the global agricultural economy.

This is particularly true in developing areas, including many places where Heifer International works. For decades, Heifer has provided sheep to struggling communities. Heifer also provides training to care for the sheep, and helps farm families improve their income and become self-sufficient.

Look through the gallery below to find out some of the ways Heifer participants have used sheep to forge better lives for themselves. Then, donate a sheep today to help even more families.

PAQUIX, Guatemala: Amilar Funes Lopez, 32, holds one of his sheep. As part of the GANASOL 2 project, Heifer focused on creating food security through sustainable agriculture and livestock practices in the region.

PAQUIX, Guatemala: Amilar Funes Lopez, 32, holds one of his sheep. As part of the GANASOL 2 project, Heifer focused on creating food security through sustainable agriculture and livestock practices in the region.

FANDENE DIAYANE, Thies Region, Senegal — Thomas Tine, 59, raises sheep with his son Gaetan, 18. The relatively lower cost of housing and feed the sheep, compared to other animals, made them a sound investment. FANDENE DIAYANE, Thies Region, Senegal — Thomas Tine, 59, raises sheep with his son Gaetan, 18. The relatively lower cost of housing and feed the sheep, compared to other animals, made them a sound investment. SYLLA DIONGTO, Matam Region, Senegal — Married couple Amadou and Aissata Sylla participated in the Yaajeende Project in 2013 to help support their large family. Here, sisters Awa, 6, and Ouna, 9, help take care of the flock. SYLLA DIONGTO, Matam Region, Senegal — Married couple Amadou and Aissata Sylla participated in the Yaajeende Project in 2013 to help support their large family. Here, sisters Awa, 6, and Ouna, 9, help take care of the flock. DALA AMO, China — Suori Erzuo, 7, feeds her family’s sheep. A plethora of uses for sheeps’ wool, milk, droppings, and other byproducts make them a valuable asset for farm families, not only for subsistence, but to breed and sell for income. DALA AMO, China — Suori Erzuo, 7, feeds her family’s sheep. A plethora of uses for sheeps’ wool, milk, droppings, and other byproducts make them a valuable asset for farm families, not only for subsistence, but to breed and sell for income.

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