Announcement: Department of Agriculture Announces Launch of EggsUp Programme in Collaboration with Resilience Cayman
George Town, Cayman Islands – July 2024 – The Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport, and Development (PAHITD), in partnership with Resilience Cayman, is excited to announce the launch of the EggsUp programme. This 3-month pilot initiative aims to support Caymanian families with children by providing fresh local eggs, began July 21st to coincide with the summer break.
The EggsUp programme is made possible by the Ministry and the Department of Agriculture through the NEST programme, a significant component of the Cayman Islands National Food Security Programme (CINFSP). Eligible families will be able to receive up to two trays of fresh local eggs per week, donated by the innovative NEST initiative.
The Honourable Minister of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport, and Development stated, “We are proud to support the EggsUp programme, which aligns with our
commitment to enhancing food security and supporting local agriculture. By collaborating with Resilience Cayman, we aim to provide vital assistance to families during these challenging times, especially as the cost of fresh food continues to rise.”
Daniel Palcu, National Egg Strategy (NEST) Officer, added, “We are delighted to partner with Resilience Cayman on this initiative. Fresh local eggs provide high-quality protein and essential
nutrients, supporting both local farmers and reducing our carbon footprint. This programme not only promotes local poultry farming but also helps alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by families in our community.”
Jan Gupta, Director of Resilience Cayman, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “Following the success of our previous food assistance programmes, which supported over 4,000 families during and after COVID, we are thrilled to continue our mission with the EggsUp initiative. This collaboration is crucial in helping families manage food inflation and ensuring access to nutritious food.”
The collaborative efforts of the Department of Agriculture, the Ministry of PAHITD, and Resilience Cayman reflect a shared commitment to community well-being and food security. The EggsUp programme aims to address these challenges by providing nutritious, Caymanian-certified eggs to those in need.
For more information about the EggsUp programme, please visit www.resilience.ky or http://Doa.gov.ky
About the NEST Programme
The National Egg Strategy (NEST) programme is an innovative initiative led by the Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport, and Development (PAHITD). NEST aims to bolster local food security by promoting the production and consumption of fresh, high-quality local eggs. By supporting local poultry farmers, the programme helps reduce the Cayman Islands’ reliance on imported eggs, lowers the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and provides nutritious options for families in the community. NEST is a key component of the Cayman Islands National Food Security Programme (CINFSP), dedicated to ensuring sustainable and resilient food systems.
About the Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture, a vital branch of the Ministry of PAHITD, is committed to advancing agricultural practices and policies in the Cayman Islands. The department’s mission includes enhancing local food production, supporting agricultural businesses, and implementing strategies that ensure food security and safety. Through various initiatives, including the NEST programme, the Department of Agriculture strives to promote sustainable farming, provide technical assistance to farmers, and improve the overall agricultural landscape of the Cayman Islands.
About the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport, and Development (PAHITD)
The Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport, and Development (PAHITD) plays a pivotal role in shaping the growth and development of the Cayman Islands. The Ministry oversees a wide range of sectors, including urban planning, agricultural development, housing, infrastructure, and transportation. Its mission is to create sustainable and resilient communities through comprehensive planning and development strategies. By supporting initiatives like the NEST programme and collaborating with local organizations such as Resilience Cayman, the Ministry of PAHITD is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents of the Cayman Islands.
About Resilience Cayman
Resilience Cayman is a community-driven non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being and resilience of Caymanian families.
Established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Resilience Cayman has developed and implemented a variety of programs designed to support families facing financial hardship, food insecurity, and other socio-economic challenges. Through initiatives such as food vouchers, hot meals programs, and now the EggsUp programme, Resilience Cayman works tirelessly to provide essential resources and support to those in need. The organization collaborates with government bodies, local businesses, and other non-profits to foster a supportive and resilient community. Resilience Cayman is committed to creating sustainable solutions that empower individuals and families to thrive in the face of adversity. For more information, please visit www.resilience.ky.
Media Inquiries:
• Vanessa Bodden
Communications Officer, Department of Agriculture
Email: Vanessa.Bodden2@gov.ky
• Biserka Pena
Email: bpena@resilience.ky
NEST Media Inquiries:
• Daniel Palcu
National Egg Strategy (NEST) Officer
Cayman Islands Department of Agriculture
Office: +1 (345) 947-3090
Mobile: +1 (345) 936-4754
