GOD SOWS HOPE IN CENTRAL ASIA
Since 2009, Sonshine Fruit Company (SFC) has been much more than just a business. It is a living testimony to God's love and is making a lasting impact on people's lives through the cultivation of fruit and nuts. We are not only growing fruit; we are growing faith, hope and a future in a country in Central Asia where millions of people have not yet been reached.
A leap of faith:
From apple trees to cherry trees
In 2024, a rapidly spreading disease attacked our apple orchard, the foundation of our work. Despite our best efforts, the disease proved unstoppable. With a heavy heart, we had to conclude that apple cultivation was no longer viable.
But where one door closes, God opens another. We believe that He is calling us to take a step of faith: to convert our orchard into a sour cherry plantation. This is an opportunity to continue and strengthen our mission. This plantation is not just a piece of land; it is a platform for discipleship, church planting and community transformation. While many traditional missionary approaches are not permitted in Central Asia, the government welcomes agricultural enterprises. This is a unique, strategic opportunity.
How SCF touches the lives of its workers
Franz worked at SFC, and a believer witnessed to him about the faith. Franz resisted the gospel for several days, but the Holy Spirit prompted Franz to read the Bible of the believing co-worker. The Holy Spirit soon convicted Franz of his sin, and he turned to Jesus in repentance and faith. Within a few months, Franz led nine of his family members to Christ.
Sonshine Fruit Company's Vision
To glorify God by partnering with and for the local community to make disciples by initiating and supporting sustainable fruit and nut businesses that impact communities spiritually, socially, economically, and environmentally.
«This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.»
John 15:8
Will you help us sow seeds of hope?
The switch to cherries is a crucial step, but it comes with a cost. We need your help to start this new chapter. The estimated total cost of preparing the land, purchasing and planting the trees, and adapting the irrigation system is around €100,000.
We are very grateful to report that €45,500 has already been pledged. That is an incredible start! But we still need €53,500.
By investing in this project, you are giving more than just money. You are financing hope, creating authentic livelihoods for believers in Muslim communities, and bringing the light of the Gospel to one of the least reached regions in the world. You are making a tangible difference in the lives of people who do not yet know God and His love.
«At the end of 2024, we were so discouraged that we wanted to give up the orchard, but then God reminded me of His faithfulness in the past. It is almost impossible for a foreign company to obtain a lease on land. He gave us the lease for a purpose. At the same time, we saw an openness among the women working in the orchard that we had never seen before. Now we are excited to see how God will use this orchard for His glory.»
Quote from our SFC employee
How you can help
Link for donations: Sonshine Fruit Company - Payrexx - Schweizerische Missions-Gemeinschaft
Purpose: SMG, Project 134102 - Sonshine Fruit Company
Email: info@smg.swiss
