SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Tyson Foods Inc. announced a series of grants to OneEgg, a non-profit organization that delivers eggs to children in need on Oct. 18. The company is focusing on three countries with this round of grants: Nepal, Honduras and Ethiopia.

The Nepalese investment of $50,000 plans for local farmers to supply eggs to 12 schools and 700 children. The goal is to reach 7,000 children in the next two years. Cobb-Vantress, a subsidiary of Tyson Foods will provide technical assistance and training to farmers. Shreenagar Agro, a Nepalese agribusiness will also provide $50,000. The project intends to provide one egg per child three times a week in the Rupandehi, Palpa and Kathmandu districts of western Nepal.

“The OneEgg Nepal project is a perfect example of our purpose coming to life and the integration of sustainable thinking throughout our work,” said Debra Vernon, senior director, corporate social responsibility, Tyson Foods. “

In Honduras, OneEgg will focus on providing eggs to expectant mothers and their families. Tyson said it will contribute $65,000 to the project and in-country partner Honduras Outreach International (HOI) will provide $50,000. The project also plans to extend research, education and outreach to the Valley of Sierra de Agalata, Olancho, in the central part of Honduras. The two groups plan to investigate the value of eggs on childhood physical development and share the farm business model with other developing countries.

“It is an absolute priviledge and honor to be part of a team that understands and applies resources to project partnerships such as OneEgg,” said Dave Juenger, senior advisor, CVI support services, Cobb-Vantress. “As an industry leader, we have the skill sets and ability to provide the technical assistance that allows small holder farmers an opportunity to become self sufficient while providing an essential protein source to the rural community, especially the children. I believe our efforts and commitment can bring upon positive change that is generationaly impactful.”

Lastly, OneEgg will launch a chapter in Ethiopia that will collaborate with Project Mercy to introduce the consumption and production of eggs into the Yetebon community. Once again Cobb-Vantress employees will provide technical assistance to train farmers. Both Tyson Foods and Project Mercy will contribute $56,500 to the initiative.

“Getting more eggs to more kids is what OneEgg is all about. We are very excited about the partnership with Tyson Foods and Cobb-Vantress and our new partners in Ethiopia, Honduras and Nepal,” said Chris Ordway, OneEgg executive director. “Protein is essential for cognitive and physical development – especially in young kids. Children who receive adequate amounts of protein before age 5 have higher IQs and stronger mental development.”