Producer Profiles
COAGRICSAL - Cooperativa Agrícola Cafetalera San Antonio
COAGRICSAL was founded in 1995 with one vision – improve the quality of lives in their community and preserve the environment. The harmonious relationship between human beings and the environment is something COAGRICSAL holds sacred. By centralizing their harvesting methods around environmentally sustainable practices, the cooperative acted to revive their effected ecosystems.
Today, the cooperative includes 800 members, all of which have benefitted from their Fair Trade certification. The premiums have allowed them to invest in community projects that help strengthen livelihoods, health, sanitation and education. Farmers pay very close attention to the way their coffee is produced, from start to finish, and hold high standards of quality. They sell primarily to specialty coffee markets reaching a variety of consumers on a global scale.
The cooperative prides itself on its core values –solidarity, fairness and justice. Members believe they are stronger as a group, and together they strive for a better future for their families and community.
Today, the cooperative includes 800 members, all of which have benefitted from their Fair Trade certification. The premiums have allowed them to invest in community projects that help strengthen livelihoods, health, sanitation and education. Farmers pay very close attention to the way their coffee is produced, from start to finish, and hold high standards of quality. They sell primarily to specialty coffee markets reaching a variety of consumers on a global scale.
The cooperative prides itself on its core values –solidarity, fairness and justice. Members believe they are stronger as a group, and together they strive for a better future for their families and community.
Programs
Middle School Student Scholarships
The cooperative elected to award a portion of their Fair Trade funds as scholarships to 15 students. The scholarships were merit based and awarded to middle school students. It covered their tuition, books and transportation costs, and tutoring sessions if needed.
Donation of Medical Kits
The cooperative has used their Fair Trade premium to strengthen access to medical care throughout the community by donating medical kits to schools, churches, community centers and other organized groups upon request.
Women's Business Center
COAGRICSAL is implementing a project exclusively for women members and spouses. The cooperative is creating a business center where women can create and sell crafts and other products for additional income.
