Cow Gives Family Hope of Reuniting

By Heifer International

October 3, 2019

Last Updated: August 2, 2013

Cow Gives Family Hope of Reuniting

Story and Photos by Karine Matevosova | Program Coordinator | Heifer Armenia
Translated by Liana Hayrapetyan | Communication and PR Coordinator | Heifer Armenia

Vram and Knarik Adamyan live with their children and grandchildren in Mets Sariar, Armenia. Their only income came from harvesting vegetables in a small garden behind their home, but it was difficult to produce enough for family consumption and profit.

Knarik, 45, and her husband Vram, 50, have two daughters, Arpine, 25, and Narine, 22, who are currently students. They also provide for their 18-year-old son, Avetik, and two grandchildren, Artushik, 5, and Garik, 1.

Finding employment in rural Armenia is difficult, so to ease his family's burden Vram chose to work abroad. Knarik then had to run the household and care for the garden alone. Her children tried to help, but it was difficult for them to study and work in the garden.

In 2010, the Shirak Rural Development project provided the family with a pregnant cow. The cow produces about three gallons of milk daily and Knarik prepares dairy products for her children and grandchildren.

"I can no longer imagine our life without our cow 'Beauty,' which is a source of nutrition for us," Knarik shared. "This wonderful project helped not only us but many other families in our village."

The family's cow has already delivered twice, giving birth to one female calf and one bull calf. Knarik barters the surplus of milk for other food in the market, such as sugar, fruits, pasta, meat and vegetable oil.

She said Heifer Armenia's assistance has helped deliver her family from extreme need. "I am sure I'll have success because I take very good care of my livestock," Knarik said. "When our family income becomes stable enough to care for all our expenses, my husband will no longer have to stay abroad to earn. Our family will be together again. I am sure we'll achieve this soon."

Help more families stay together.